Kendo classes are conducted in a traditional manner. Terminology is usually in Japanese, although instruction is in English or by demonstration. Beginners are instructed separately until they have learned enough of the basics to train with the advanced students. Although there is special clothing and equipment involved with kendo, beginners need not worry about that initially. Wear some comfortable clothing you don’t mind sweating into – we will provide the rest. Beginners can expect to spend most of their early classes practising basic footwork, posture and strokes. After a few months (six is about average) the student is ready to start practising in armour.
Qualifications
Qualified instruction in Kendo in Saskatoon has been provided since 1981 by the Saskatoon Kendo Club. The head instructor, Ken Miyaoka, is a 7th degree black belt with over 50 years of experience. The other instructors include Neil Gendzwill, 6th degree, Lance Wall, 5th degree and Kyle Zeabin, 4th degree. The club is a member of the Canadian Kendo Federation. The club is non-profit and instruction is on a volunteer basis.
Kids
Saskatoon Kendo Club does not run a separate program for kids. All students are taught in the same class. Minimum age to join kendo is 12.
New members
Saskatoon Kendo Club accepts new beginners in September and January. We accept new members who have kendo experience at any time. Registration for the 2022 fall term has begun. We will hold free introductory classes on Wednesday, Sep 14 at 7 PM and Sunday, Sep 18 at 3 PM.
Equipment Costs
You will be expected to purchase a shinai (practise sword) for $40.00. After a month or so, you will be expected to purchase a uniform for about $100. You will begin to wear armour sometime in the first year. The armour is available for rent from the club at a rate of $20/term.