Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a great place to meet people?
Kendo is a place to meet great people as Kendokan are members from all walks of life. Some are international citizens, some have their PhDs, some are students and others are committed to improving themselves. Most importantly, everyone is there to help and support each other to improve.
Is there a grading system?
Kendo has 6 Kyu or junior grades and 8 Dan or senior grades. They begin at 6th Kyu and go towards 1st Kyu, Kyu gradings are held every six months and allow participants to move up 2 gradings per year. Once you have achieved your 1st dan, you will need to wait for a period of 1 year before attempting 2nd dan. After which you will need to wait 2 years before 3rd dan and so on.
At what age can I start?
A unique aspect of Kendo is that there is no set starting age for Kendo in Japan. Children as young as 5 have begun Kendo and older participants in their 60s. If you are interested in Kendo, now is the best time to start!
Is it suitable for women and men?
Kendo is suitable for women and men and is not segregated by gender. In competitions, it is usually grouped into Junior and Senior ranks. It is also not uncommon to have whole families that participate in Kendo.
Can children join?
Yes, children are eased into Kendo at a different rate than older members. This gives them more time to adjust and practice their basics before being involved fully in training. As a guide, we would recommend a starting age of double digits however, we are also open to enquiries.
Do women, children, mature age train together?
Women, mature age and children all train together. During the basics, it is up to all participants to keep yourself and others safe so any danger is minimised. During Ji-geiko (mock fights), the higher graded participants look after the less experienced participants.
Where can I purchase Kendo equipment from?
Ordering Kendo equipment online can be complicated if you want to purchase the correct gear. We have our very own club suppliers , who can help you will all your kendo needs. Alternatively, you can source your own gear, our suggestion is to speak to some of the senior club members before purchasing anything to make sure it is right.
Is it a great place to meet people?
Kendo is a place to meet great people as Kendokan are members from all walks of life. Some are international citizens, some have their PhDs, some are students and others are committed to improving themselves. Most importantly, everyone is there to help and support each other to improve.
Is there a grading system?
Kendo has 6 Kyu or junior grades and 8 Dan or senior grades. They begin at 6th Kyu and go towards 1st Kyu, Kyu gradings are held every six months and allow participants to move up 2 gradings per year. Once you have achieved your 1st dan, you will need to wait for a period of 1 year before attempting 2nd dan. After which you will need to wait 2 years before 3rd dan and so on.
At what age can I start?
A unique aspect of Kendo is that there is no set starting age for Kendo in Japan. Children as young as 5 have begun Kendo and older participants in their 60s. If you are interested in Kendo, now is the best time to start!
Is it suitable for women and men?
Kendo is suitable for women and men and is not segregated by gender. In competitions, it is usually grouped into Junior and Senior ranks. It is also not uncommon to have whole families that participate in Kendo.
Can children join?
Yes, children are eased into Kendo at a different rate than older members. This gives them more time to adjust and practice their basics before being involved fully in training. As a guide, we would recommend a starting age of double digits however, we are also open to enquiries.
Do women, children, mature age train together?
Women, mature age and children all train together. During the basics, it is up to all participants to keep yourself and others safe so any danger is minimised. During Ji-geiko (mock fights), the higher graded participants look after the less experienced participants.
Where can I purchase Kendo equipment from?
Ordering Kendo equipment online can be complicated if you want to purchase the correct gear. We have our very own club suppliers , who can help you will all your kendo needs. Alternatively, you can source your own gear, our suggestion is to speak to some of the senior club members before purchasing anything to make sure it is right.