Kendo is the traditional Japanese martial art of fencing besed on the two-handed sword

techniques of the samurai warriors. The weapon used in modern Kendo is called Shinai,
which is made of four slats of bamboo. The length and weight of the Shinai depend on
group’s age. Training in Kendo centres on sparring and repetition of basic attack and
defence techniques. There are four target areas: the head, the wrists, the torso and thrust to
the throat. Although there are only four target areas, there are many variations of the
techniques used to strike them. In an actual bout, the aim is to strike your opponent on the
body, but not just anywhere. There are designated strike zones, and the contestant must call out
the name of the strike zone when making the strike. There are three strike zones: the head,
trunk, and forearm. Actually, there is also a fourth strike zone, the part of the throat beneath the
head and shoulder protector - but this is considered dangerous and is not permitted for children
up to middle school age. In kendo, strikes on any other parts of the body do not score points.
The time limit on a contest is five minutes. The contestant who is the first to score two points is
the winner.