Kendo competitions are generally two-point matches (shiai) that last between three to five minutes. Fencing rings measure nine to eleven square meters, and are marked in the center with a circle or an "X" from which the starting line is drawn. The wooden floor must be smooth so that the barefooted contestants do not risk injury. Two people are positioned at opposite corners to notify the referees if the contestants have or have not crossed the foul lines during the match. Three referees also stand-two in the front and one in the back-raising either a red or white flag to indicate which contestant has scored. If the referees are not in agreement, a head judge will decide the vote.

At the beginning of the shiai, the contestants step into the court and bow to each other. At the center of the court, they squat down and wait until the referee shouts "hajime" (begin) to stand up and initiate attack. Contestants will frequently shout throughout the match, both to intimidate their partner and add force to their attacks. Points are scored when a valid target is struck (the head, sides of the body, throat and wrist) from the correct distance and with the correct technique and body posture. The match continues until a referee calls "yame" (stop) or a contestant scores two points. Then the contestants will return to the center and squat down in the same position as before, walk away backwards, bow to each other, turn, and exit the contest area.

Like challenges? Take the Kendo Quiz.
Thoughts to share? Discuss in the Sports Forum.
Opinions? Contribute to the Kendo Poll.
Questions? Contact our Kendo M-[art]²-ial Mentor.
Interested? Contact a Kendo Organization.

Images of "Kendo Competition" from
Houston Budokan (http://www.houstonbudokan.com).
houston_budokan@hotmail.com. July 2001. Email message.