Kendo is the way of the sword. The Kendo "way" includes perfecting Japanese style sword fighting techniques as well as developing oneself emotionally and spiritually. Showing proper etiquette and regarding developing your opponent in equal measure to yourself are what distinguishes Kendo from other sports. This is common to most martial arts, and it is practised to an exceptionally high degree in Kendo.

The atmosphere when playing Kendo is intense. Proper etiquette must be expressed at all times both to the senseis and to fellow kendo players. Players at all times must do their best -- or there is no meaning to the practised techniques both for you and your partner. This means coming up against your own limits and then challenging them until they are overcome and a new set of limits is found. Mental toughness is necessary and must be greater as you increase in rank. The learning required to be made on the physical, emotional and spiritual levels of a person keeps playing Kendo fresh and interesting as you progress!

Some of the benefits of playing Kendo include:

• Developing stamina and energy.
• Developing respect for yourself and other people. This was commonly referred to as character development.
• Learning about the Japanese culture.
• Gaining friendships with active and interesting people.
• Learning about the mental states and physical realities necessary to perform Japanese sword fighting at a high a level as you are prepared to develop yourself.