In 1871 a law was passed to make the teaching of kendo compulsory in all Japanese schools. This traditional style of fencing reflects the spirit of the samurai combining swiftness, strength and suppleness to strike the single blow from the shinai. Meaning literally ‘Way of the sword’, kendo has evolved from several hundred separate types and styles of swordsmanship that were created throughout the 15th to the 17th centuries. Since training with real swords caused many serious injuries, and even death, a harmless practice sword (shinai) was eventually introduced. During the 18th century, Nakanishi Chuta refined the shinai to improve its flexibility, and also made it compulsory for the students to wear protective garments.

The first college of the Kendo Federation was established in 1909 and, two decades later, the general Federation was set up. Kendo is an important part of physical education in Japan’s schools, and is still practised by several million people throughout the world. Grades are awarded according to the progress of the student, and it generally takes two to three years to achieve a 1st Dan (or grade).

Meditation and silence are essential elements of the training as the kendoka is not to use his strength when delivering the blow. The definition provided by the Japanese Kendo Federation explains "the object of kendo practice is to train the body and mind, to build a strong soul, to strive relentlessly for improvement in the art of kendo by tough, serious training; to respect human courtesy and honour; to mix with others in all sincerity; and always strive for personal accomplishment".

It is controlled, swift, ruthless and exhausting combat, with the release of energy being signified through the kiai, at the same time transmitting that energy to the tip of the shinai to effect the attack.

The shinai used today comprises four lengths of seasoned bamboo, forming a hollow cylinder, bound by waxed cord that runs along the length. These bamboo swords vary in weight and length according to the age of the student, and whether one or two shinai are to be used. Generally they range between 43 and 46 inches in length, and weigh from 13-17 ounces.

Traditionally, a tunic and trousers are worn in training, and protective equipment is always put on in a specific order. Firstly, the tare is fitted around the waist to protect the lower abdomen and hips; then the do (or breastplate) is fixed to cover the chest; next the men, a helmet with a face guard; and lastly, the kote (gloves) to protect the hands and wrists.

A 'fight' usually lasts for about three minutes. Points are awarded for strikes to the left side, right side, top of the head or for a thrust to the throat. The attacker must declare his blow as it is delivered using the correct term and, for a blow to be successful, the body, the sword and the cry must come together simultaneously.