Kendo is not really a self defense art. Kendo is the sport version of Kenjutsu just like Judo is the sport version of jujutsu. It is a great workout and will increase agility, timing, and reflexes. Yes, it is hard to find Kendo schools in the US.

There are two in NY, NY and some schools offer Kendo in addition to their primary art(s). NY is big enough to support a separate school. I have been in the martial arts for 8 years. If you want to talk off-line, email me at tribobpa@yahoo.com