Be Like a Samurai -- Do Kendo

When facing an opponent in battle, a samurai had to keep his head -- or risk losing it.

Modern life isn't quite so extreme, but people who practice kendo, the art of Japanese fencing, say there is much to be gained from studying this martial art that goes far beyond a vigorous workout and Kill Bill-style swordplay.

Granted, kendo, or "way of the sword," does look rather intense. A kendo class is a symphony of combat, as participants clad in body armor and massive helmets face off with bamboo swords and attack each other with spirited shouts of "kiai!" ...