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Sensei Paul Gattone, a third degree Dan Rank in Kendo, has been training in the martial arts for 14 years.

Kendo (剣 道 Kendo) or "way of the sword", is the martial art of Japanese fencing is the most respected form of modern budo in Japan, and has perhaps the closest links to many aspects of the classical martial tradition. Although it may be broadly categorized as the ritualized, sportive version of Japanese fencing, Kendo is neither a viable combat art nor is it a pure sport. The modern heir to the social, cultural, and philosophical heritage of the Japanese martial tradition, Kendo is perceived by most experienced practitioners to be essentially a spiritual discipline.

Kendo developed from traditional techniques of Japanese swordsmanship known as kenjutsu. Since 1975 the Concept of Kendo as stated by the All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF) is "to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana". The AJKF state the purpose of practicing kendo as:

• To mold the mind and body,
• To cultivate a vigorous spirit,
• And through correct and rigid training,
• To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo,
• To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor,
• To associate with others with sincerity,
• And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.

This will make one be able:

• To love his/her country and society,
• To contribute to the development of culture
• And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.

Kendo is a physically and mentally challenging activity that combines strong martial arts values with sporting-like physical elements.

Practitioners of kendo are called kendoka (one who practices kendo) or kenshi (swordsman). The latter may also be applied to practitioners of other traditional Japanese sword arts. Around 8 million people world-wide practice kendo with approximately 7 million of them in Japan.

Kendo is practiced using "swords" made of split bamboo called shinai and extensive protective armour (bogu) is worn to protect specified target areas on the head and body. Kendoka also use bokuto (wooden swords) to practice set forms known as kata. On formal occasions, real swords or swords with a blunt edge, called kata-yo or habiki, may be used for a display of kata. Learn more....