Couple Reasons why people do Kendo
OBJECTIVES OF KENDO
Physical development: agility, quickness, posture and poise, good reflexes (instant judgement in the face of danger).
Mental development: power of concentration, alertness,the ability to make a instant decision, determination to carry out the decision, self reliance and self confidence, willingness to take responsibility for action, develops common sense
The basics is where it all begins and ends
Striking and Thrusting in kendo must be performed with a unity between the spirit the body and the mind. This is referred to as ki-ken-tai-ichi. Yukodatozu or correct successful kendo strikes and thrusts are this unity in the operation of the mind, the sword, and the body. None of these operating without the assistance of the other two will result in a successful attack. This is the ultimate goal to becamming an advanced kendo expert. The ability to do this is the ideal toward which all kendoists must srtive.
Only through repeated practice and training sessions will the kenshi be able to achieve this goal to develop perfect strikes and thrusts by cultivating the ability to coordinate these three elements completely.
Zanshin or the remainder is used to mean two things. First, it indicates that after an attack the determination to continue fighting without letup and be totally ready for a counter attack. The kendoist demonstrates this state of mind to his opponent upon completing an attack. Second, it demonstrates a follow through so that there is no collapse of technique and form because you are worried aabout a counter attack. In order to learn this one must practice having a kiai that neveer falters but flows through the entire attack. Keeping the kiai going strongly unifies the spirit and the body leading to a naturla state of zanshin.
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