Forge your spirit through the ancestral discipline of Kendo.
Where Japanese tradition meets the inner warrior.
Kendo as part of life, not as competition
"Kendo is not an end in itself, but a means to cultivate the spirit, develop discipline and find balance in daily life."
From 7 years old and up. Children, youth, adults and seniors practice together, learning from each other.
We understand life has multiple responsibilities. Practice adapts to your context, not the other way around.
It doesn't matter if you can't attend every week. What matters is staying on the path, at your own pace.
Kendo integrates as an enriching complement, not an obligation that consumes your time.
Kendo as a comprehensive training tool for all stages of life
Kendo teaches fundamental values: respect for elders, peers and oneself. Dojo etiquette transfers to daily life.
Improves coordination, reflexes, cardiovascular endurance and strength. A complete workout in a controlled, safe environment.
Practice requires full attention. Children learn to focus, which reflects in better academic performance.
A family environment where parents are welcome to observe classes. Events and activities that strengthen bonds.
Note for parents: Parents may observe classes at any time. We organize family events and keep you informed of your children's progress.
Many kendokas started after 30, 40 or even 50 years old. Kendo adapts to your physical condition and progresses with you.
Kendo practice is an ideal escape valve. The required concentration disconnects you from work and daily stress.
Works cardiovascular, coordination, reflexes and strength. A complete training that keeps body and mind active.
The dojo is a community of diverse professionals. Relationships forged on the tatami transcend practice.
For professionals: We offer schedules compatible with work hours. Regular practice, even once a week, generates significant benefits.
In Kendo, women and men train together under the same rules. Your gender doesn't determine your limit — your dedication does.
Kendo develops confidence, presence and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Skills that transcend the dojo.
You'll find other women practitioners with whom to share the path. A support network that understands your challenges.
We understand the multiple responsibilities you face. Practice adapts to your life, not the other way around.
Fact: Women in Kendo compete at the highest world level. Japan, Korea and other countries have elite competitors who inspire new generations.
What to expect on your first visit to the dojo
Arrive 15 minutes early. We will welcome you, explain basic dojo etiquette and introduce you to the group.
Comfortable athletic clothing is sufficient, and the art is practiced barefoot. We will lend you what you need.
You will participate in stretching and conditioning exercises that prepare the body for practice.
You will learn the basic stance (kamae), how to hold the shinai and the first cutting movements.
Under sensei supervision, you will practice basic movements along with other beginners.
Practice ends with brief meditation and formal bowing. You will have time for questions.
Ready to begin your path?
Schedule Your First ClassThe four pillars of Kendo practice
Kihon (基本) means "fundamentals". It is the foundation of all Kendo training. Without solid fundamental technique, progress is impossible. Every practice begins and ends with kihon because mastery lies in perfecting the basics.
Kata (形) are preset sequences of movements practiced with bokuto (wooden sword). They represent the technical and philosophical essence of Kendo, transmitted unchanged through generations. They are mandatory for Dan gradings.
Shiai (試合) is competitive combat where everything learned is applied. It is not just about winning, but demonstrating correct kendo: clean technique, strong spirit and respectful attitude. True shiai is a conversation between two spirits.
Reigi (礼儀) is the etiquette and respect that permeate every aspect of Kendo. "Kendo begins and ends with rei (礼)". Without reigi, Kendo is reduced to violence with sticks. With reigi, it elevates to a path of human development.
Keiko - The training that forges the spirit
Education professionals committed to your development
Professor - Florida State UniversityIB CertifiedSTEAM Specialist
Doctor of Education and university professor with extensive experience in curriculum development, educational program management, and structured teaching methodologies. Kendo training under Koyama Masayuki Sensei (Okayama, Japan). Integrates modern pedagogy with traditional Japanese discipline.
20+ years as educatorPhysics Olympiad CoachUniversity Professor
Electromechanical Engineer (UTP) with over 20 years of teaching experience in physics, mathematics, and programming. Professor at schools like Javier, Panamerican School, and ADEN University. Physics Olympiad coach with gold medal winners. Kendo training under Sensei Hagino Nakamura (Tokyo, Japan).
Spirit, Technique and Body: the three pillars of Kendo
Spirit · Mind
The development of character and proper attitude. A serene mind undisturbed by adversity.
Technique · Skill
Mastery of fundamental and advanced techniques. Precision born from thousands of mindful repetitions.
Body · Physical
Physical conditioning and proper posture. A strong and flexible body in service of the spirit.
"The purpose of Kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the sword."
— All Japan Kendo Federation
Our international community
Tsuriai Kendo Panamá operates under the technical guidelines of the All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF) and the International Kendo Federation (FIK).
Our recognition by Houston Heights Kendo Club, under the direction of Koyama Masayuki Sensei (Okayama, Japan), guarantees consistent technical training and access to official grading examinations.
AUSKF is a non-profit organization serving as the governing body for Kendo in the continental United States, representing 49 states.
To promote and develop Kendo in the United States under FIK standards, serving as the official liaison to the International Kendo Federation.
FIK is the world governing body for Kendo, established in 1970. It oversees the development and promotion of Kendo internationally.
To promote and popularize Kendo, Iaido and Jodo worldwide, maintaining the technical standards established by the All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF).
The Kendo grading system follows the Japanese model of Kyu (student grades) and Dan (master grades). Each level represents not only technical skill, but character development and understanding of the way.
Fundamental training stage
Continuous refinement stage
Note: Time between gradings varies according to individual dedication. Kendo is a lifelong path — the goal is not to accumulate ranks, but to cultivate the spirit through constant practice.
Everything you need to know before your first class
First class completely free with no obligation
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