FAQ
Q: What is Kendo?
A: The word literally means: “The way of the sword.” Kendo is a Japanese martial art derived from the Samurai and the standardised techniques of different swordsmanship schools. Kendo was a way for warriors to train without the risk of serious injury and death.
Q: When and where are the practices?
A: Wednesdays (8-10pm) + Sundays (10am-12pm) at the Lower Gym in Kerr Hall West. Visit practice info for more details.
Q: How much is it to join?
A: For TMU students, we offer a highly discounted fee of $50 per semester. The cost for non-students (community member) is $100 per semester. Our registration fee is highly competitive compared to other Kendo clubs across the GTA.
Q: What is included in membership?
A: We include a wide variety: access to 2 Kendo practices weekly, access to our club socials, participation of an internal Basic Skills Tournament, one in club grading examination (up to 2 kyu), complimentary club Bogu (armor) rental for your first year, and a beginner's specific guide to Kendo.
Q: Do I need to have previous sports/martial arts experience or be physically fit?
A: Not at all! The best part about our Beginner’s Kendo Program is that each individual progress at their own pace. We welcome everyone with different physical levels, even if you have no gym experience.
Q: I have an injury or conflicting schedule, can I still join?
A: Yes! We will try our best to accommodate any injuries/limitations. It is recommended to attend at least one practice a week as a beginner.
Q: I have previous Kendo experience, can I skip the beginner's class?
A: If you are interested in joining and have previous Kendo experience, please contact us and inform us of your rank/previous club. We will get back to you with next steps!
Q: I have my own bamboo/wooden/metal sword! Can I bring it?
A: We strongly recommend getting a shinai from the TMU Kendo Club as older bamboo slats easily dry out and may be dangerous to use. Please refrain from bringing personal swords (of any material) to practice unless given explicit approval from Sensei.
Q: What’s the armor? When can I put it on? How can I get one?
A: Bogu is the modern rendition of Samurai armor, beginners transition into bogu around 5 months into practice. You are not expected to purchase bogu as a beginner, we have complimentary club sets to rent out for beginners.
Q: Can I use Kendo for self defence/MMA/improve other physical activities?
A: Kendo is not practical for self defence since there is a lot of equipment involved. While Kendo is not an empty hand sport/martial art, many physical and mental aspects of Kendo can still be applied to daily life.
Q: How do I join?
A: Visit the TMU Registration site, please remember that we only have 3 intakes per year (January, May, September).
Q: I am part of another Kendo Club, how can I visit?
A: Please contact us and let us know when you wish to visit. We will then coordinate with TMU Athletics to approve you as a visitor and provide a waiver. We welcome all visitors of different levels, but please do not drop by unannounced as it goes against TMU policies.