Rivonia Kendo Club is up and running with their latest venture being Kendo Kids.
Warren Ho, the sensei at the club, said the inspiration to start Kendo Kids came from his own lessons from the martial art.
“The inspiration is kind of twofold. I have always thought that kendo can be very beneficial for pretty much everyone, and especially kids.
“It helps with focus in terms of the mental, physical and spiritual. With kendo being a very vigorous sport, it’s overall movements are extremely good for the body.”
Ho said his teachings were based on three pillars – self-confidence, resilience and discipline – not just for children but for the parents as well.
“The discipline aspect is really good for their spirit in terms of being able to regulate their emotions, so these are sort of the long-term benefits of kendo.”
With fitness, coordination, muscular development, gaining strength, stamina and balance, kendo can be a release for children. “It gives children a voice and I use that in a very literal sense. During the classes we scream and shout and this is done without limitations or restrictions. They get to go wild which can also be a stress reliever.”
Above all, Ho said kendo taught respect and etiquette. “As much is it is by way of the sword, it teaches people to respect their fellow man and the environment.
“Most of all children, have a lot of fun and get a good work out at the end of it.”
Details: Rivonia Kendo Club www.rivoniakendo.co.za
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