Kendo is the art of Japanese swordsmanship that was originally developed and practiced by the Samurai. It’s theory, techniques, and methods of training, have been handed down through the centuries. Although far from ancient Japan, Kendo is still trained with all the vigour, skill and enthusiasm of the days of the Samurai.
Today Kendo is practiced as a sport, but still using the same principle of perfecting mind and body. The goal of Kendo is not only to develop the physical capability of fighting, but also the moral and spiritual aspects that may be applied in coping with real life.
When training in Kendo, a kendoist wears a traditional Japanese uniform consisting of a Keikogi (jacket) and a Hakama (pants). The weapon used is called a shinai (a bamboo sword) and a Bokken is also used for practicing katas.
Beginners Classes 8Weeks
The Kendo Beginners Course runs for six weeks which includes 2 classes per week. Beginners can train at any of our clubs during this period. You will be provided free use of the protective armour known as Bogu. You will need to purchase your own bamboo weapon called the Shinai. We have these available for purchase at the club or right here online.
The course covers:
Outline of Kendo
Footwork and stance
Basic movements
Attack and defensive techniques
Kendo terminology
Dojo procedure
Dojo and Kendo etiquette
How to wear and maintain the Bogu
How to wear and the uniform
Physical fitness at your own pace
Footwork and stance
Basic movements
Attack and defensive techniques
Kendo terminology
Dojo procedure
Dojo and Kendo etiquette
How to wear and maintain the Bogu
How to wear and the uniform
Physical fitness at your own pace
At the end of the course, you can attempt the first grading, which is 10th Kyu and then join the regular training with other students.
A new Beginner Course starts the first Sunday of each month. Register and pay for the Kendo Beginner Course right now and find out how it can impact on your life!
Kendo Target Areas
Kendo Equiment
Mem
Do
Kote
Taree
Shinai
Keikogi
Children’s Classes
Ages 9 to 12
In Japan kendo is very popular with children of all ages. They mainly start in their early years of primary school and continue through secondary school and university. Parents in Japan see kendo not only as a sport but also part of their education.
At the Australian Kendo Dojos children can start training from the age of nine onwards. They are taught the same curriculum as adults but is presented in a way to specifically meet their needs. Providing fun with the physical fitness, but just as important respect to others, self confidence and awareness.
Children can train at any AKD club. We do not run specific children’s classes however kids are always welcome.
Kendo Gradings
By taking gradings you work through the ranks from 10th to 1st Kyu then to Sho Dan (equivalent to Black Belt). After Sho Dan there is 2nd Dan, 3rd Dan, all the way through to 10th Dan. Gradings are held on a regular basis.
Kendo Tournaments
There are three kendo tournaments held each year. They consist of Individuals, Teams and Kata divisions. Individual tournaments are where members compete individually against other members regardless from which dojo (club) they belong to. Team tournaments consist of five members from each dojo competing against five members of another dojo. This is the same with Kata tournaments except there are only two competitors to form a team.