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Kyudo (kyu - the bow; do - the way) is a Japanese type
of archery that is centuries old. It differs most conspicuously from western
archery in its use of the asymmetrical Japanese bow (about 2.20 metres long),
without any sight device or arrow rest, its costume, which has developed from
that of the Samurai warrior, and the ceremonial order of the shooting
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Ceremonial archery was performed at special events as
early as in the 8th century. The warrior´s energy and vigour were linked
with the dignity and the aesthetics of the shooting process. After the
invention of the fire arm in the 16th century and with the bow consequently
losing its importance as a weapon, Kyudo came to focus on its spiritual and
mental aspects. Even the beginner will soon learn that it isn´t his
will and ambition that make him hit the mark, but concentration, composure and
constant practice with the correct technique. It is hard to frame Kyudo in
normal categories. Without being just a type of sport it has a sporty
component, without being a religion it has a spiritual component, and thus it
is a physical discipline with an important mental and emotional
component. Despite its being practised in different Kyudo schools, this
traditional form of Japanese archery has remained almost unchanged throughout
its millennial history. The Heki (Shamen) and the Shomen styles are the ones
that are most widespread in Germany.
Who can practise Kyudo?
Lacking any spectacular external action, Kyudo is rather
internal an exercise. It trains your concentration and composure, sharpens your
physical awareness and has a positive consequence on your posture, balance and
motions. Moreover, Kyudo is also a sort of mental training that helps to
develop your personality. As it isn´t your muscular power but the
sensitive coordination of your motion that counts, Kyudo can be practised by
men and women of any age alike.
Where to practise Kyudo?
Those who practise Kyudo in Germany have united in the
DKyuB (Deutscher Kyudo Bund - German Kyudo Association). The DKyuB is member
of the EKF (European Kyudo Federation), with the ANKF (All Nippon Kyudo
Federation) being its parent organization. People who take an interest in
Kyudo may turn directly to the Kyudo clubs or to the representatives of the
respecitve federations.
Pillars and base of Kyudo
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