Kendo: Elements, Rules, and Philosophy (Latitude 20 Books (Paperback))

For those beginning their kendo journey, I'd recommend this book to understand the fundamentals. Some dojos focus on practice: practice swinging the shinai, practice varying waza, practice footwork. But few seem to focus on the very basic items that are presented in this book, things that I think many kenshi take for granted. Easy to understand and addresses all of the practical things that you will do in kendo.

Jinichi Tokeshi's book is a great supplement to the modern kendoka. However, I would recommend getting Kendo: The Definitive Guide by Hiroshi Ozawa since Kendo: Elements, Rules, and Philosophy is not as thorough with its waza and keiko.This book has concise and understandable vocabulary, making it easy for many people to read. It simplifies most of the concepts in the book. Tokeshi-sensei starts off with the history of kendo, which was rather segmented. He then proceeds to introduce the equipment necessary for kendo: the shinai, gi, hakama and bogu. For each equipment, illustrations are provided on how to maintain them or wear them.The waza and keiko in this book are explained in paragraphs, only giving the reader an overview. There are illustrations in many waza and keiko that can help one reference back. Tokeshi-sensei also provides some insight and tips on waza.Just like the rest of the book's contents, the philosophy was concise. He cut straight to the chase, and I have yet to see any personal bias he wrote regarding the philosophy.In all, this book is a great reference.

If you are interested in Kendo, this is an excellent all around guide.

I am a beginner in Kendo so take this all with a grain of salt.I thought this was a tremendous book. Well written, clear, and thorough. I think it rivals "Kendo: the Definitive Guide" as one of the two best Kendo books. Particularly interesting, though not useful unless you're already a sandan or so, are the sections on Nito and Jodan. I haven't seen info on those kamae in English anywhere else.Good book and a worthy addition to your library.

Still In middle of reading it, its very all encompassing for the beginner looking to get into kendo, the section on proper maintenance of practice equipment is very useful. Not an advanced or intermediate manual. Great for the fundamentals.

This book has precisely everything that I was looking for with regards to all the basic techniques, history, equipment, even two sword form, kata, waza and so much more.Regards Kyoshi Ejaz 5th Dan, Ken To Fude No Ryu, Solly Said's Karate, Kickboxing and Kenjutsu

THE most complete work in Kendo I have ever seen.Cover techniques with one and two swords (shinai), as well as KendoKata. Good text and good imagery. If you practice the way (Dõ), or are interested in the art, you need this at the side of your bed.

This book was informative and is a great guideline to anything and everything kendo. Great for beginners to get all the technical terms and techniques as well as a refreshment to veterans.

I love this book!! I already eat it a lot of times, thank you so much for all, I love it

If you only ever buy one kendo book, buy this one. I am serious - it is THE most complete book on kendo in the English language I have read. History, philosophy, equipment, techniques, kata, shiai and famous kendoka - it's got it all, and in sufficient depth. Destined to be a classic.