It’s the start of a new year, so maybe it’s time to give a new sport a go.

And kendo could be the perfect one to try.

For those who don’t know, kendo, meaning ‘the way of the sword’ is a Japanese martial art practised worldwide.

“Kendo is something unfamiliar and new, so the benefits of practicing it are numerous,” says John Edwin Richards, dojo leader and 4th dan registered coach at Shudokan Kendo Dojo in Cheltenham.

“It is character-building and gives students the opportunity to apply themselves through developing their mind, body and spirit.”

As for a place to start, Shudokan Kendo Dojo is too good to miss.

“I have been at the club since 1984. The club were founded in 1971 by my father and currently have around 24 members with an average attendance of around 14 per practice,” says John.

“Our club is very flexible.

“We welcome students from school year 11 right through to 60 and 70 years old, and our practices accommodate their different fitness and skill levels accordingly.”

The members of the club certainly have plenty of achievements to be proud of.

“I have represented Great Britain at three European championships and one world championships. I also won the British University Taikai (competition) twice,” says John.

“The club have produced and welcomed students who have gone on to represent Great Britain in international competitions.

“The current GB men’s captain previously attended the club, and two of the members of the ladies’ team have also trained with us.

“One of our highlights was a competition we ran last October.

“It was really well-attended by over 40 participants including members of the British and New Zealand national teams.

“It is an annual competition and seems to be growing each year.”

So, what’s so special about kendo for John personally?

“I enjoy kendo as I get a sense of well-being from combat in a controlled environment.

“My position as coach also gives me satisfaction in the sense that the other members of the club are continually improving,” he says.

And what about the future?

“I very much intend to keep running the club for many years to come,” says John.

If you’re looking for something unique and a chance to be a part of a great club, pay Shudokan Kendo Dojo a visit.

It’s definitely not disappearing anytime soon.