No, samurai did not specifically practice kendo as it is known today. Kendo as a martial art developed during the Meiji period in Japan (late 19th century) as a result of the transformation of traditional martial arts practices. It was established as a standardized form of swordsmanship for physical education and character development.

During the era when samurai were active (approximately from the 12th to the 19th century), they studied various martial arts that focused on swordsmanship and combat skills. These martial arts included disciplines such as kenjutsu, iaijutsu, and battojutsu, which were specialized systems of sword fighting techniques.

Kenjutsu, in particular, was the primary martial art practiced by samurai. It encompassed a wide range of swordsmanship styles and techniques, with an emphasis on practical combat effectiveness. The training in kenjutsu involved the use of live blades and encompassed techniques for striking, parrying, and defending against opponents.

While kendo has its roots in the historical swordsmanship of the samurai, it is a modern martial art that evolved and developed separately from the combat practices of the samurai. Kendo emphasizes the development of mental focus, discipline, and sportsmanship while utilizing bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bogu) to ensure safety during training and competition.

So while the samurai did not specifically practice kendo, their martial arts training and swordsmanship formed the foundation upon which kendo was later established as a distinct martial art.