 AboutAbout Kendo(from Wikipedia) Kendo, or "way of the sword", is the Japanese martial art of fencing. Kendo developed from traditional techniques of Japanese swordsmanship known as kenjutsu. Kendo is a physically and mentally challenging activity that combines strong martial arts values with sporting-like physical elements. Practitioners of kendo are called kendoka, meaning "one who practices kendo", or kenshi, meaning "swordsman". Kendo is practised wearing traditionally styled clothing and protective armour (bogu), using one or two bamboo swords (shinai) as weapons. Kendo may be seen as a Japanese style of fencing. The movements in kendo are different from European fencing because the design of the sword is different, as is the way it is used. Unlike western style fencing, Kendo employs strikes with a defined 'edge' and tip of the shinai. Kendo training is quite noisy in comparison to other martial arts or sports. This is because kendoka use a shout, or kiai, to express their spirit, and when a strike or cut is performed, the front foot contacts the floor in a motion similar to stamping. There are estimates that about eight million people world-wide practice kendo with approximately seven million in Japan. Kendo is one of the modern Japanese budo and embodies the essence of Japanese fighting arts. About the ClubThe Sno-King Kendo Club was founded in 2003 by Jeff Marsten. The club offers instruction through the Seattle Parks and Recreation department. We are affiliated with the Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation, the regional governing body of kendo in this area. In turn, the PNKF is affiliated with the All United States Kendo Federation and, in turn, the International Kendo Federation. These affiliations allow the club to participate in seminars, promotional examinations, tournaments and other special events at the regional, national and international levels. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhere is the club located? How do I get there?
That question is answered here. When is practice?
That question is answered here. I'm a beginner, how do I sign up?
Register online here, by phone at 206-684-7524, or in person at Bitter Lake Community Center, 13035 Linden Ave N Seattle, WA 98133. It's my first day. What do I bring?
Come wearing comfortable, loose fitting clothes. All other equipment can be purchased through the club. How much does it cost?
Quarterly club dues are approximately $70 ($7 per week). Other common costs for beginners are about $20 for a wooden training sword (bokken), about $25 for a bamboo sword used for striking (shinai), about $75 for a the uniform (keikogi and hakama), and $70 for yearly regional and federation dues. Not all of these costs are due up front, most will come up throughout the quarter or year. Does it hurt?
Not really, once in awhile an errant strike will sting. The most common injuries are bruises from inaccurate strikes. Despite being a full-contact martial art, kendo is the safest to practice. It has a minimal injury rate and well below common activities such as baseball, soccer, basketball. What do I do if I have more questions?
If you have further questions, feel free to contact us. |