Male and Female Grading for Kendo
by George
(Toronto)
I understand that Kendo Shiai are mostly separated to men and women competitions.
But during examinations for Kendo 1 - 7th Dan, are members separated to male and female, or is it combined as a unisex examination?
Answer: A great question! The exam hosts, i.e. federations, try to match the age and gender of applicants. However, as you know when you cannot match them, then you need to go with what you have.
Moreover, in those exams, they are testing your kendo level not who gets valid cuts. So, as long as you show your kendo level and convince your examiners, you will pass.
Hope this helps!