Kendo, is composed of two kanji: "ken", meaning sword, and "Do", meaning 'the way/path of'. Together the term is literally the "way of the sword". It is a martial arts tradition spawned by the traditional school of swordsmanship (ryu) of ancient Japan, and was practiced by and large by the bushi, or samurai class of the era. As practice with real blades is inherently dangerous, the schools developed a dummy sword called a shinai, and a set of protective equipment called bogu which protects the head (men), wrists (kote), chest (do), and groin (tare).
Kendo training is based on a variety of movements of attack and defense know as waza. Most fundamental are stance, footwork, cuts, thrusts, feints, and parries. Though is it a highly strenuous activity, kendo is also a means to strengthen the mind and the will to to improve oneself. It is this aspect of kendo that attracts many of its most devoted practitioners. A Kendo bout with skilled opponent is an intense experience. For a moment in time concentration is absolute, conscious thought is suppressed, and action is instinctive. Such training develops in the serious student powers of resolution and endurance under pressure which frequently affects his or her life beyond the confines of the training hall.
Iaido, In the beginning Iai-jutsu was a part of Ken-jutsu. When time passed and as a result of the relatively peaceful Tokugawa period many masters saw in Iaido an excellent way of developing spiritual, mental and physical discipline. Iaido was born. Iaido does not actually mean overcoming an enemy, but overcoming one's own self. The only and the most dangerous opponent in Iaido is the iaidoka themself.
