Kendo is the military art of the sword in Japan. Kendo, literary translated, the way of the sword, had a major influence on all Japanese martial arts like karate, aikido, judo etc. Practiced and cultivated by the Japanese warrior caste, the samurai, kendo is the retainer of a century old martial art tradition. Kendo as it is practiced today, was developed about 200 years ago, when the “shinai”, a bamboo sword, was devised to enable the safe and free practice of this art. The characteristic of Japanese sword fighting is that the shinai is held with both hands. Kendo plays today an important role in the education system in Japan and is popular among the young and old, men and women alike. Beginners that come to CMAC for kendo classes need just the shinai for the first weeks of practice.

Benefits of Kendo practice

- Physical conditioning
- Strengthens your focus and concentration
- Foster discipline
- Learn respect and courtesy
- Stress relief
- Develop an understanding of strategy and tactics in military arts

Instructor

Shigeru Koyama – Kendo

- Practicing kendo for over 34 years
- Fifth degree black belt awarded in Kagoshima/Japan 1992
- Founder of Louisiana Kendo Association
- Member of Southeast U.S. Kendo Federation
- Successful as competitor from 1993-2005
- Licensed as instructor, examiner and judge
- Has been teaching since 1988 in Europe and all over the USA

Shigeru Koyama has been living in the US since 1989. He’s married and has a son. Koyama sensei’s understands his ancient art of the samurai as a tool to mold body and mind, while also cultivating the character.