Japanese martial arts, one step at a time.
Guides to kendo, judo, karate, and the dojos worth training at — written from Japan, with a fitness trainer's eye on conditioning, gear, and what actually helps you improve.
Latest guide
Starting Kendo: What Beginners Actually Need to Buy First
A trainer's guide to kendo equipment for beginners — what a shinai is, how bogu armor should fit, and what to prioritize when starting out.
July 24, 2026