Kendo, the traditional Japanese martial art of swordsmanship, is a sport with deep historical roots and a vibrant global following. Given its strong emphasis on discipline, respect, and skill, many people question why kendo has not been included in the Olympic Games, especially considering that numerous other martial arts, such as judo and taekwondo, have gained recognition. Let’s check out the reasons why kendo remains absent from the Olympic arena, and consider whether we might one day see it take the spotlight and place bets on it like we do for other sports, particularly after checking out a solid review of the best betting offers.
The History of Kendo
Kendo, which translates to “the way of the sword,” has its roots in the samurai tradition of combat and self-discipline. Formalised as a martial art in the late 19th century, kendo incorporates bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armour (bōgu), enabling practitioners to engage in safe sparring. The practice emphasises not only physical ability but also mental sharpness, character development, and strict adherence to rules of etiquette and respect.
While kendo is practised worldwide, its competitive aspect remains closely tied to Japanese culture and philosophy. This strong cultural connection may partly explain why kendo has not yet transitioned to the Olympic arena, which often requires a more global and uniform approach to sports.
The Unique Philosophy Behind Kendo
A key distinction between kendo and other Olympic sports is its underlying philosophy. Kendo is not solely focused on winning or losing; it is a martial art that prioritises personal development, mental discipline, and respect for others. The concept of reiho (etiquette) is central to the practice, with matches beginning and ending with bows that symbolise respect between competitors.
In contrast, Olympic sports are primarily judged on athletic performance, victory, and measurable achievements. The inclusion of a sport like kendo, where personal growth and respect play significant roles alongside points, presents a challenge to the competitive nature of the Olympic Games.
Scoring and Judging Difficulties
Another reason kendo has not yet become an Olympic sport is the complexity of scoring and judging matches. Unlike more straightforward sports where winners are determined by goals or times, kendo’s scoring system is subjective and can be challenging for those unfamiliar with the discipline. Points are awarded based on the precision, form, and spirit of the strikes delivered.
For a point to be scored, a clean hit to an opponent’s head, body, or wrists, or a thrust to the throat, must be accompanied by proper footwork, posture, and kiai (a vocal shout that expresses fighting spirit). Judges, known as shinpan, must possess a deep understanding of kendo to accurately assess points. In a global competition like the Olympics, where consistency in judging across various sports is crucial, this subjectivity could lead to controversies and confusion.
Cultural and Organisational Resistance
The All Japan Kendo Federation (AJKF) has expressed concerns about kendo’s inclusion in the Olympics. The organisation values the traditional aspects of the sport and fears that Olympic competition might dilute its essence. There are apprehensions that elevating kendo to Olympic status could shift the focus from self-improvement and discipline to purely competitive success.
Additionally, there is resistance from the global kendo community, with many practitioners believing that the martial art should maintain its unique status. Some worry that conforming to Olympic standards could necessitate changes in rules and practices, thereby impacting the sport’s purity.
Lack of Global Participation
Although kendo is practised in over 60 countries, its popularity outside Japan remains relatively niche compared to other martial arts. Sports like judo and taekwondo had to demonstrate widespread international practice before being accepted into the Olympic program. Kendo’s current levels of participation may not yet meet the threshold required for Olympic inclusion.
Moreover, kendo lacks a large-scale international tournament that garners global attention. While the World Kendo Championships do exist, they do not yet possess the same visibility or recognition as other martial arts competitions. For kendo to be considered for the Olympics, a stronger global presence and increased international competition would be essential.
Future Prospects for Kendo in the Olympics
While kendo’s absence from the Olympics is notable, it does not mean the sport will never be included. With growing international interest in traditional martial arts and Japan’s ongoing influence within the Olympic movement, there is a possibility that kendo could one day be considered.
However, for this to happen, kendo would likely need to compromise on certain traditional elements and adapt to a format that aligns more closely with Olympic standards. This may involve changes to the scoring system, greater international participation, and potentially a shift in philosophy to emphasise competitive elements.
Kendo’s absence from the Olympics underscores the delicate balance between preserving tradition and embracing modern competition. Its rich cultural heritage, subjective judging system, and focus on self-discipline rather than pure competition set it apart from many other sports in the Olympic lineup. While kendo remains a respected martial art worldwide, its future in the Olympics may hinge on how willing the community is to adapt to the demands of global competition while still maintaining its core values.
For now, kendo continues to thrive outside the Olympic spotlight, preserving its reputation as a deeply respected martial art that transcends mere sport.