My first visit: a quick & dirty primer

Important

For all of us practicing kendo, it is a pursuit that is done for no financial gain - camaraderie, the love of Budō and self-development drive us. We will volunteer all the effort we can to help you on your way (dō). Just as you are starting off now, all of us depended on the selfless efforts of our sensei and senpai in the past to reach where we are today.

Before

  • We highly recommend your first visit consist of just watching a class. We recommend contacting us first in case we aren't having a class or there is some special event. If you will drop by unannounced, please check the calendar first.

  • Be at class 10 minutes before start time so that you don't interrupt the session.

  • Take your shoes off by the door.

  • Please introduce yourself - we're a friendly sort.

During

  • We have some seating facing the dojo floor, please sit there.

  • Please wait until the end of class for questions.

  • Please refrain from talking loudly, whether on your phone or to someone else.

After

Ask questions!

So, I have decided to try this out (aka "My First Practice"):

Before practice:

  • Inform the instructor or one of the senior students if you have any serious medical issues.

  • Be at class 10 minutes before start time so that we don't interrupt the session.

  • Wear something comfortable that will allow you to move around.

  • No need to buy any equipment for your first class (think of it as an "arrive and drive" sort of thing).

  • If wearing something long, turn up your hems so you don't trip.

  • Make sure you don't get dehydrated (especially in the summer) so drink lots of water the day before and the day of.

  • No socks and shoes, no dangling jewellery.

During practice:

  • First sessions will be focused on getting a feel for the basics (kihon):

    • How to stand.

    • How to move.

    • Holding the shinai.

    • Some basic mechanics of swinging the sword.

    • Et cetera.

  • DO NOT OVER DO IT! Unless you have prior experience with Japanese sword arts, your body will find this completely unfamiliar. If you feel any sort of actual pain (as opposed to light soreness or tiredness), please raise your hand and inform us.

  • Going as fast as you can (unless it is requested of you) or as hard as you can may lead to injury. Kendo is not dependent on pure muscle power. Relax your body.

  • Be open minded and listen to the senior students. They will help you through as long as you have a good attitude and do what is asked. Speed comes from repetition of correct cutting, not ‘trying to cut fast’

  • If you cannot do something, that is all right. Do not offer excuses or reasons why, just ask a question.

  • Be patient. Kendo is Budō. Budō is a lifetime pursuit. It can take years to come close to understanding the fundamentals.

  • Reiho (manners/etiquette) is kendo. Frustration can occur but see prior point. This is a new pursuit so keep that in mind and take a deep breath.

After practice:

Please ask questions