from dust jacket

Kendo-The way of the Sword-is one of the oldest of Japan's martial arts and the one most closely associated with the samurai. Immortalized in the action movies of Akira Kurosawa and in the bestselling novel Musashi, Kendo-originally a form of swordsmanship-has in recent years developed into a popular and highly competitive sport enjoyed by thousands of men and women around the world.

Kendo: The Definitive Guide is the first book in English to provide a practical and truly comprehensive approach to the subject. Everything that the novice needs to know, from basic information about purchasing, wearing, and maintanining essential equipment to competing in international tournaments, is expained in simple, straightforward language. Step-by-step explanation of fundamental techniques needed to be mastered to attain black belt level is illustrated in easy-to-follow line drawings.

With appendices giving the rules at international competitions and important information about Kendo clubs outside Japan, Kendo is the definitive guide for all non-Japanese Kendoists. A special section about the history and development of this martial art and guidelines for running practice sessions also make it a unique resource for all teachers of Kendo.

Hiroshi Ozawa is an associate professor at the Science University of Tokyo and Kendo kyoshi, 7th dan. He was born in Saitama Prefecture in 1950 into a highly respected Kendo family which was instrumental in incorporating Kendo into the physical education curriculum as a core subject. He makes regular trips abroad to demonstrate and teach Kendo, and also writes books about samurai ethics.

Contents

Preface
Introduction
The History of Kendo
Chapter 1 The Basics
Chapter 2 Stretching exercises
Chapter 3 Waza (Techniques)
Chapter 4 Nihon Kendo Kata
Chapter 5 Keiko (Practice)
Appendices
Competitions & Judging
International Kendo
Glossary