Philosophy

The philosophy of kendō is what makes it a martial "art".  Kendō is more than hitting each other with sticks.  We aim to spar without fear, anger, frustration, or pride.  Learning is more important than winning, and behaving correctly is more important even than learning.  Kendō makes us better people.

Datotsu Bu: The Four Cuts

There are four viable strikes, or cuts, allowed in Kendō .

Men: a cut to the top of the head.  It is the most common cut.

Kote: a cut to the right forearm at any time, or the left one when the hand is raised above the shoulder.

Dō: a cut across the torso.  It is less common because both arms have to be up for the dō to be open.

Tsuki: A stab to the throat.  It is rare because the target is small and the stab is easily deflected.  It is allowed onlyt o and by adult black belts.