About Us
Ichi Byōshi Kendo Dojo (IBKD), situated in the heart of Bryanston is a martial arts school led by Michael Grice teaching Kendo, the way of the sword.
We are affiliated to the South African Kendo Federation (SAKF).
We are an inclusive club, open to everyone that has interest and passion to learn and train in the beautiful art of kendo. The training hall is one of the most beautiful in the country, purpose built for traditional Japanese sword arts and set in a safe and tranquil environment. We aim to promote social wellbeing, understanding and goodwill by encouraging development of character through the application of the principles of the sword. Kendo practitioners of all levels and experience train with intensity at a pace they are comfortable with, in a safe and respectful environment.
Kendo
Kendo is a martial art that is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Japan. Kendo, Japanese fencing, started in the era of the Samurai, giving them opportunity to train vigorously with safe training methods. Kendo is a highly energetic martial art that is reminiscent of the ancient samurai battle cry and clashing of swords. Kendo is a contact martial art that involves the striking of clearly defined targets, with a flexible bamboo sword, on one’s opponent. Kendo players must wear the prescribed protective clothing when they engage in contact striking. Kendo is also played as a sport where fighters can compete against each other in a competition that is conducted within a set framework of rules. Competitions are conducted locally at club, national and international levels. The South African Kendo Federation also participates in the European Kendo Championship (EKC) and the World Kendo Championship (WKC). Discipline, etiquette and mutual respect are highly regarded values in Kendo.
Why Kendo?
Training in Kendo helps develop our physical conditioning and general well-being. It can be practiced safely by people of diverse ages, genders and physical conditions. Younger and more athletic participants will be able to train at a higher intensity for longer periods, and older practitioners are free to train at a pace that is aligned to their physical condition to achieve maximum benefit from kendo. Through constant kendo training, practitioners develop increased strength of character, awareness, concentration, quick reflexes, assertiveness, confidence, physical balance and endurance. Kendo as a Japanese martial art is attractive to anyone that has an affinity to martial arts, Japanese culture and tradition. Kendo allows for people that are interested in Japanese martial arts to participate without fear of being hurt or injured.
