Kendo, like many martial arts, has practical applications that can be effective in real-life situations. While Kendo is primarily a sport and martial art focused on the practice and refinement of sword techniques, it can provide valuable skills and attributes that can be applied in self-defense or real-life combat scenarios. Here are a few reasons why Kendo can be effective:

1. Swordsmanship fundamentals: Kendo training develops a solid foundation in swordsmanship techniques, such as striking, blocking, and footwork. These skills can be adapted and utilized with a real sword or other bladed weapons if necessary.
2. Focus and mental fortitude: Kendo practitioners cultivate mental strength, focus, and discipline through training. These attributes can be valuable in high-stress situations, enabling individuals to remain calm, make sound decisions, and react effectively to threats.
3. Timing and distance management: Kendo emphasizes understanding and controlling distance and timing in combat. This skill can be applicable in real-life situations to assess and manage the distance between oneself and an opponent, as well as to time strikes and defenses effectively.
4. Physical conditioning: Kendo training improves overall fitness, strength, agility, and endurance. Being physically fit and conditioned enhances one's ability to defend oneself, evade attacks, and maintain stamina during a confrontation.
5. Mental resilience: Kendo training fosters resilience and the ability to handle pressure and adversity. This mental strength can help individuals stay focused and determined during confrontations.

However, it's important to remember that real-life self-defense situations are highly unpredictable and can differ significantly from controlled training environments. Factors such as the presence of weapons, multiple opponents, the environment, and legal considerations must be taken into account.

Therefore, it's crucial to supplement Kendo training with a well-rounded self-defense approach that includes situational awareness, conflict de-escalation, and training in other aspects of personal protection.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of Kendo in real-life situations depends on the individual's adaptability, experience, and ability to apply the principles and techniques learned in training to dynamic and unpredictable scenarios.