About Sensei Henry Expertise I study several Martial arts..Karate (Goju Style), Kendo (the application of the sword), Iado (the drawing of the sword), and Judo\jujutsu (Kodokan Style). I run a very traditional dojo in Florida. As a Sensei of the arts I try to keep my style true to their creation. My students and friends understand that Martial Arts especially Karate is not a hobby it is a way of life...
Expert: Sensei Henry Date: 4/2/2003 Subject: Kendo
Question Hello Sensei: I asked my Sensei about the history, & meaning of Sonkyo, but he didn't have an answer for me? Is Sonkyo just an equal, or neutral position? Thank you for your time
Answer well Kelly,
The word Sonkyu is a term used meaning "respectful fair start/fair fight". It is used in Kendo to give both competetors an equal start to a fight. The first three slow steps towards each other is to allow each fighter to perpare mind and spirit (Mukso)for the fight, the slow squating done together touching tip to tip with shinias is to give the fighters the respect to defend yourself, and as you know the riasing to the toes mean ....FIGHT!!!!
Like all martial arts... It is not to win but how one wins...
