Peachtree City Kendo Club

What is Kendo?
Two words - Japanese Fencing. For a better in-depth definition than we could possibly provide, please go here.

 

I've never done Kendo, can I join the club?
 

Yes, absolutely! We have a strong beginner program, and no prior experience is needed. The best time to start is the first class of a new quarter, so try to join at the very beginning. Classes are Mondays at 6:00pm, and we ask new members to arrive a few minutes early.

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The first few weeks move fast. That early instruction builds the foundation for everything else, so it really helps to be there from day one.

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Worried about being the only beginner? Don't be. Depending on the quarter, you'll likely have 20 or more people starting alongside you, all learning the basics (including how to yell like you mean it) at the same time. It's a great way to make friends, and a lot less intimidating than facing the senior members solo.

 

How old do you have to be to join?

We welcome everyone from the ages of 5 - 105.

 

What should I expect on the first day?
For the first day, you should be registered at the Peachtree City Recreation Department and bring

 $45 to purchase a wooden sword (shinai) and show up in comfortable clothes to exercise in.

 

For the most part, you will be taught basics to prepare you for armored practice. You will learn things like footwork, swinging, and how to yell like a crazed banshee. If you tend to be shy and don't think you can yell a lot, Kendo will definately bring out that inner beast in you.

 

I've done Kendo before, can I join the club?
Anyone with previous Kendo experience is welcome to join the club anytime. It is assumed that you know all the basics of Kendo and will fit in with existing class groups. If you're feeling rusty, let us know and you can stay out of bogu until you're comfortable.

 

Do I have to be in good shape?
No. While it certainly does help to be in good physical shape, it certainly isn't necessary.

 

Does it hurt?
A little. The most common injuries for beginners is a blistered left foot. This injury becomes less and less common as footwork improves.

 

In general, the chance of suffering injury as a result of diligently practicing proper Kendo is very low.

 

Does the club participate in tournaments?
Yes. The club participates in several regional tournaments throughout the year. Participation is encouraged but not mandatory.

 

Does the club sell all of the necessary equipment?

No, however we can provide you with a shinai (cost $45). We do loan out bogu sets to use but these are limited. If you wish to purchase armor or other Kendo-related equipment, we can recommend some websites.

 

Compared to other martial arts, Kendo is relatively cheap. The major cost is in equipment purchases. However, many of these purchases are one-time only. The first purchase a beginner is required to make is a shinai (split bamboo sword used for striking) which costs $45. After a month or so, it is recommended that students purchase uniforms. A complete set consisting of keikogi (light jacket) and hakama (pleated trousers) starts around $75.

Easily the most expensive purchase in Kendo is the bogu (armor). A decent set costs anywhere from $500-$1000. However, the club loans out sets to qualified members for free (free is good).

Keep in mind that much of this equipment will last for several years-- making the overall expense far less than what many different arts charge in monthly dues alone.

 

I have more questions. Who can I contact?
For questions/issues regarding the club or this site, please send us an email, visit one of our practices or visit our Facebook Page.