Chris Banyas
Life Editor
Kendo, literally translated, means the way of the sword. The western perception of this Japanese martial art comes largely from sources such as anime and samurai films, which often misrepresent it.
The Kendo Club at Idaho State University offers students many things, including a hobby and a means to work in some cardio-vascular exercise. In the end, it is as much a mental exercise as physical.
“Kendo is basically a martial art that emphasizes the use of the samurai sword,” said Zachary Simpson, club president. “We practice in armor with a bamboo sword and we also do Kata, which are predetermined forms where we use a wooden sword.”
The club formed several years ago as an extension of the already existing community club.
Those unfamiliar with kendo often believe it to be a sort of grand melee in which opponents wildly swing at each other hoping to inflict the most damage. The reality is far different.
Each area of the body which may be targeted is associated with a name. While westerners may imagine legions of samurai doing battle, in kendo it is limited to two individuals: attacker and defender.
“So when you strike an opponent in kendo you enunciate the part that you are going to hit,” said Simpson. “It’s not an accident, you don’t get lucky. It’s intentional.”
The top or sides of the head are called the Men, while the area of the throat is called the Tsuki. The region of the wrist is designated the Kote and the area of the torso is called the Do.
Those interested in kendo should also know that there are many techniques and fundamentals which must be learned before getting to this point.
“It’s a long time before it becomes a contact sport,” said Simpson. “For me it took about a year before I got the protective armor. It’s about six months before you even get a uniform.”
Many of the techniques which must be learned deal with the idea of the sword and how it is utilized.
“We’re not hitting each other with axes or clubs; it’s a three-foot razor blade. The direction isn’t down, it’s forward,” said Simpson.
The concept of personal character is central in kendo, and is as important as any sword strike or parry.
“One of the first things they teach you is politeness and etiquette. The first thing you learn how to do is bow,” said Simpson. “There’s really no showboating in kendo. If you are hit by your opponent, you thank them for it, because they’ve shown you openness and vulnerability in your attack.”
The club currently consists of about seven members. It is always on the lookout for more.
“Anyone’s welcome to come by, and we’ve even had a couple of people join this semester,” said Simpson. “We have two practices a week: Fridays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 2 to 3:30 p.m.”
ISU offers kendo as a physical education course, which is taught by Nicholas Shiosaki, who also serves as a sensei for the club. Kendo has been around for hundreds of years and has much to offer those who are willing invest the time and effort.
“My perception of it changes. Every time I go to practice, I learn something new,” said Simpson.
Those interested in joining the club or in kendo in general can contact Simpson at ude.usinull@hcazpmis.
