Publisher's Synopsis
"Kendo for Fun" is exactly what the title states. In 1994, 1995 and 1996 I was studying kendo and training in it regularly; however, my commitment to my empty hand American Eagle Style and the growth of my students within that style took precedence. But I did not stop promoting kendo and the beauty and power that it teaches to my instructors and black belt students. Over the years we have had workout classes and seminars in kendo and its history. My number one student in this area has been Master Nicholas Chuff, one of my empty hand instructors. He was the overseer and instructor for my school's kendo workouts and over the past two years has encouraged this book to be written for our workout class participants. Kendo is truly a unique area of the traditions of the sword. We are not a traditional kendo school and our style of kendo is called "Americanized Eagle Kendo." It has come about to meet the needs of my instructors and students in my empty hand and Iaido styles. Some of these individuals have serious knee challenges or lower back limitations, leaving them unable to execute some of the ceremonial traditions and demands of traditional kendo. Existing on the outside of the circle of traditional kendo, our style allows them to participate and enjoy this magnificent discipline. This book includes traditional and slightly altered stances, body postures, basic strikes, basic blocks, four kumi tachi, two three point sparring exercises, and the kendo kata "Falcon Stoop." The book also presents the kendo armor, how to put it on and take it off as well as maintenance. Reading this book also prepares individuals to participate in our classes, understand our stretching, and provides information on where to look for a traditional kendo school if they desire. The martial arts is all about enjoying life and taking in as much as possible. We have fun practicing kendo, which in turn gives us a terrific workout as it improves our balance, strength and focus.
