A shinai is a traditional Japanese sword used in the martial art of kendo. It is made of flexible bamboo strips, which allows for safe practice and sparring. The shinai is designed to mimic the weight and balance of a real sword while minimizing the risk of injury during training. Shinai come in various sizes and weights to accommodate different practitioners. They typically have a leather grip and a protective tip, known as the tsuba, to enhance safety. Using a shinai helps students develop their skills in kendo while promoting discipline and respect within the martial art.