Kendo
Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art which descended from traditional swordsmanship.What is Kendo
Kendo or the “Way of The Sword” is a modern Japanese martial art which descended from traditional swordsmanship. This martial art uses bamboo swords called Shinai and protective armor called Bōgu. It is widely practiced within Japan and many other nations across the world. Kendo is a physically and mentally challenging martial art that combines vigorous practices and values with sport-like strenuous physical activity.
Becerra Sensei
Kendo – 6th Dan,
Sword Art Polisher
What makes us different from other Dojos
Toku Bu Kan Dojo is a traditional Japanese Budo (Dojo) located in the Miami area dedicated to the pursuit of true Japanese swordsmanship. This is our location and do not share our facilities with other martial arts. We are also not located in a retail outlet or strip mall. We are interested in the quality of our students and not in the quantity of students. We value proper training, hard work and dedication from our students. This is self evident in tournament results and in the level of our students. At this time in Florida you will not find as many high level kendo people with so much national and international experience in one school. Miami has never had this much opportunity for prospective kendo students. Our Sensei is the second highest ranked in Florida and has over 30 years of experience training in Kendo. He has trained in Japan and throughout the United States. He has qualified and participated on the United States Kendo team, this is an accomplishment that is extremely difficult. No one else in Florida, not to mention Miami, has been able to get to that level as of yet. With sensei’s background and mature experiences in kendo, Becerra Sensei’s is constantly teaching that true kendo is only achieved thru confidence and humility, not thru arrogance especially as an instructor. You will find that sensei teaches this thru his own actions at every practice. We pride ourselves that each member of the Dojo is considered family. We train to better ourselves in our martial art studies and in our daily lives. We value winning by true virtue (Toku), not by nasty or excessively aggressive actions. With this concept, your opponent will appreciate training with you. You will have gained the respect from your opponent for these qualities you uphold during your exchange in Kendo. Leading to a great learning experience for both you and your opponent. “Toku” in Tokubukan has a deep meaning and is giving us a goal to strive for every day we train.
Modern Practice of Kendo
Kendo training can be quite noisy in comparison to some other martial arts. It requires the kendōka (Kendo student) to use a shout, or kiai to express their fighting spirit when striking. Additionally, kendōka execute fumikomi-ashi, an action similar to a stamp of the front foot, when making a strike. Modern kendo techniques comprise both strikes and thrusts. Strikes are only made towards specified target areas on the wrists, head, or body, all of which are protected by armor.
The targets are men, sayu-men or yoko-men (upper left or right side of the men), the right kote at any time, the left kote when it is in a raised position, and the left or right side of the dō. Thrusts are only allowed to the throat.However, since an incorrectly performed thrust could cause serious injury to the opponent’s neck, thrusting techniques in free practice and competition are often restricted to senior Dan graded Kendōka.
Beginner classes now available!
What do you need to start Kendo?
Kendo is for everyone. Kendo is practiced around the world by men, women and children of all ages. While it is a competitive and physical martial art, it also builds strength of mind and concentration. Therefore, many people who practice Kendo do it for their entire lives well into their advanced years.Starting Kendo is easy. All you need to begin is to contact us first and wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing when you come to the first practice.Be ready to participate in class, as the best way to learn Kendo is by doing.
Kendo is Japanese fencing derived from the ancient art of Samurai swordsmanship. Using a simulated sword made of bamboo slats, and wearing protectors, the Kendoist competes against an opponent according to established scoring points and regulations. It is excellent training for mental as well as physical discipline.
The concept of Kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the Katana (The sword).
The purpose of practicing Kendo is:
- To mold the mind and body
- To cultivate a vigorous spirit
- Through correct and rigid training
- To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo
- To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor
- To associate with others with sincerity
- To forever pursue the cultivation of oneself
Thus one who is be able to love their country and society, to contribute to the development of culture, and to promote peace and prosperity among all people.
