While most people have heard of jūdō, kendō, aikidō and karate, many haven’t heard the term that they fall under, gendai budō . It’s used to describe modern Japanese martial arts, specifically those founded after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Unlike traditional martial arts, gendai budō focus on self-improvement first and self-defense second. Some, like jūdō and kendō, have sporting and competitive elements, and karate has been recognised as a new Olympic sport.