by kodokankendo.uk | Nov 20, 2025 | Article
by Paul Budden The following was written with adult Men & Women and older kenshi in mind. I’m often asked this question, and while the traditional answer tends to be that a shinai should match your body and ability without being cut down arbitrarily, I...
by kodokankendo.uk | Nov 15, 2025 | Article
by Paul Budden The idea of Shu–Ha–Ri is often explained in grand, philosophical terms, but for me it has always been a simple, practical way of understanding how we learn. It fits not just with kendo but with any long-term practice. My interpretation is...
by kodokankendo.uk | Nov 12, 2025 | Article
by Paul Budden I’ve always been fascinated by the expression ‘Pen and Sword in Accord’ here some further reference for Budō & shodō. Which is quite fascinating, but I know very little about shodō. Here a deeper and culturally accurate breakdown of each kanji for...
by kodokankendo.uk | Nov 12, 2025 | Article
by Paul Budden So what of the future direction of international kendo? John Bowen, former member of the GB Judo team, mentioned to me that there are moves in British judo towards making it even more of a sport than a life-forming discipline. This transition...
by kodokankendo.uk | Nov 12, 2025 | Article
by Paul Budden “Shiai is the forge, and Enbu is the flame that reveals the steel.” Competition has always played an important role in the development of Kendo, particularly for younger practitioners. It offers a clear framework in which skill, timing, and...
