THE FAQ

What do I need?

Initially, not much. Beginners will just need suitable clothes to practice in. T-shirts and track suit bottoms (or similar) are fine. A shinai and bokuto are provided as part of the beginner’s course. The club has a limited supply of armour for general use. Eventually, you will need to buy the appropriate kendo clothing, a keiko-gi and hakama. Armour is expensive and can be left until you are sure that you wish to continue with kendo in the longer term.

How much will it cost?

A beginner's course is available that covers the cost of everything for the duration of the course. Please see the beginner's page for details.

Normal club fees are £52 per quarter for adults. Additionally, club members will need to join the British Kendo Association (BKA) for insurance purposes. Their current annual subscription is £50. Short term membership of the BKA (£10 for 3 months) is available for beginners who wish to try kendo for a short time. 

A basic set of keiko-gi (jacket) and hakama (trousers) will total around £40-50. Shinai and bokken are around £10-20 each. Armour costs anything from £200 upwards, but is NOT a suggested purchase at the start. These items can be bought from a number of sources.

The club is not run for profit; anything left after paying for hire of the facilities goes towards additional club kit and running expenses.

Does it hurt?

The honest answer would be....sometimes. However, the armour is designed to cushion most of the impact, and a properly executed cut will not generally hurt. This is one of the reasons why beginners will have to spend several weeks practicing their cuts before being allowed to strike anyone in armour.

Is it safe?

As with all sports these days, safety must be a priority. Equipment must be maintained and checked regularly to ensure that it is serviceable and safe. With the proper kit and armour, kendo is very safe.

Is physical strength required?

Although it is a contact activity, strength alone is not of particular benefit in kendo. There is very little pushing and shoving involved; ladies are encouraged to take part on equal terms. As you continue with kendo, you will find that you build up fitness in the muscles used most often in the arms and legs.

Is there a minimum age?