A Japanese martial art of sword fighting with bamboo swords and protective armor, emphasizing discipline and respect.
From Japanese 'kendo,' from 'ken' (sword) and 'do' (the way or path, as in Tao). The modern sport developed in Japan in the 19th century, codifying samurai sword techniques for peacetime training.
Kendo practitioners must memorize dozens of strikes and footwork patterns, but the real genius is that kendo also emphasizes mental discipline and 'spirit'—winning isn't just about technique, it's about making your opponent feel psychologically overwhelmed!
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