Classes (West Seattle & White Center)

Class Information and Registration

Classes are offered on a quarterly bases at the White Center Dojo.  You can register in person at class, or call 206-246-2239 to obtain a registration form.

Returning students and beginners aged 6 years and up are encouraged to join.

There are additional equipment fees for beginning students of $20 for a bokken, due the 1st class, and $25 for a shinai, due the 4th class. 

Beginner instruction

Beginning instruction focuses on etiquette (reigi) and establishing a solid foundation in the basics of footwork and proper cutting technique in Kendo.  You do not need to bring any equipment to your first class.  Just wear loose fitting clothing appropriate for exercise (e.g., sweats).  At the first class, beginners will need to purchase a wooden practice sword (bokken) and, a few classes later, a bamboo practice sword (shinai).  Both items are available through the class for a total cost of $45.

Intermediate instruction

Students who pursue Kendo training beyond the first few quarters are expected to purchase a set of the clothing traditionally worn by Kendoists, the keikogi (a thick, loose-fitting coat) and hakama (loose, pleated pants).  A set of keikogi and hakama for an adult costs approximately $100.  The exact price depends on factors such as size and the exchange rate for the yen.

Advanced instruction

After a few quarters, new students progress to the point where they are ready to wear protective armor (bogu) and begin fencing with their instructors and fellow students.  Used armor may be rented through the class at a cost of $35 per quarter.  In the long term, serious Kendo students are expected to invest in their own armor.   New armor can be purchased through the club at discounts or off the internet.  Used armor is also occasionally available for purchase.  The kendo clubs will gladly assist in these purchases and should be consulted to save money and obtain high quality equipment.

Federation membership

All students who wish to go beyond the Parks Department programs (basic kendo class) will need to join the regional, national, and international kendo organizations.  The membership fees for the Pacific Northwest Kendo Federation (PNKF) and the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF) are a combined cost of $60/year for adults and $40/year for juniors aged 17 and under.  Membership provides access to all PNKF and AUSKF sanctioned events, including seminars, demonstrations, tournaments (taikai), and testing for rank (shinsa).

For more information

For general Kendo information call (206) 246-2239 or e-mail jmarsten@hotmail.com.