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For people who take up kendo after they reach 50, it is still possible to advance into the higher dan ranks. A sensible approach to how hard and how fast you train is essential, as is correct warm-up and cool-down exercise. Nevertheless, good strong technique can be developed that works against younger, faster opponents and if you can come anywhere close to developing Mochida sensei’s state of “the immovable spirit” or Fudoshin you become invincible.

Fudō Myō-ō,the Buddhist guardian deity that personifies Fudōshin

Equipment and How to Choose and Wear it

Kendo requires more equipment than many other sports. Over basic clothing of hakama and keikogi we wear bogu (armor), consisting of men, dou, tare, and kote. In addition we need at least one shinai (bamboo sword) and a tenugui (men towel).

Chakuso

Chakuso or the way we put on our equipment and present ourselves in kendo is an important indicator of our attitude to training and our technical ability. Bogu is expensive, so there is no problem in using old, well worn equipment. It should, however, be kept in good repair. Hakama and keikogi should be clean and pressed and wherever possible should retain the original color. I was given a lesson on the importance of good chakuso as well as one on Japanese tact early in my time in Osaka. My dojo’s shihan explained that the cut-down judo jacket I used had been “stolen” and that I would have to wear the purpose made keikogi that he gave by way of “consolation.”