FAQ

 Please also see "Terms" for terminology used and here for how to join Triangle Kendo & Iaido .

And also the  "Kendo Equipment Manual" .

I am interested in learning Kendo, how can I get started?

Triangle Kendo & Iaido has an ongoing enrollment program. All those interested in learning more about Kendo are welcome to come in and watch one of our practices. By observing the practice, you will get a feel for what Kendo is and the atmosphere of one of our member dojos. As a beginner, you will be performing the same fundamental drills to learn etiquette, footwork, and how to correctly swing the shinai over and over. You will probably not be wearing bogu (armor) for at least a few months. Please note that YOU WILL NOT BE practicing flashy sword work such as spinning the sword, or flying kicks .

Are there any restrictions?

If you are in good health, you can learn and practice kendo. If you have any health problems or concerns (i.e. asthma, heart condition, high blood pressure, erc.), as with any excercise program, please consult a doctor prior to starting kendo.

As a beginner, what will I learn? 

 For the first few months you will be given basic instruction in Kendo. An instructor will teach you the etiquette used in Kendo, basic footwork and swinging of the Shinai.

As a beginner, what should I wear to practice?

We suggest you wear comfortable loose fitting clothing such as sweats and a t-shirt. There are some people who re-use their Karate or Tae Kwon Do gi-bottoms (pants). However, you do not need to wear the gi top and belt.

When should I purchase and wear the Keikogi and Hakama?

During the beginner phase, we suggest wearing sweats. This is to avoid any extra investment by the student should they wish to discontinue studying kendo soon after they enroll due to work schedules, relocation, change of heart, etc. Once a decision to continue kendo is made buying a hakama and keikogi are encouraged. This can take a few weeks before one determines if kendo is right for him or her. Please check out our Links Page for equipment manufacturer's you can buy uniforms and bogu from.

When can I put on the Bogu? Why does it take so long to get into Bogu (armor)?

Dojo lead instructors will make the determination on when a new student will move into the advanced class, and when they shall put on the bogu. The fundamentals of Kendo must first be learned and the muscles used in Kendo must be developed and become strong enough to withstand the rigors of practice.

What are the costs involved?

The fees are organized as such:
First is the TKI yearly due, which is required of all members. Next is the individual dojo fees. These vary by the facility (please contact the nearest dojo location for the current fee information). After that are the Federation dues. To be able to play in tournaments and also to be able to test for promotion each kenshi must belong to the AUSKF. However, if you don't want to test or go to tournaments AUSKF dues are not necessary to practice kendo or iaido at a TKI member dojo (AUSKF membership is encouraged).
A membership in TKI and it's member dojo allows practice opportunities at all member facilities at no additional cost.

TKI initiation fee (one time only) $20
TKI yearly dues (18 yrs and above)... $24
TKI yearly dues (under 18)... $12
AUSKF yearly dues (18 and older)...$60
AUSKF yearly dues (under 18, shodan and above)... $50
AUSKF yearly dues (under 18)... $35

Please contact the dojo most convenient to you for the dojo fees.
Please see the Contacts page for contact information or use the mailbox icon at the bottom of the page to ask questions or arrange to come check out a practice.

Do you get belts as you are promoted?

No. There is no outward sign of rank in kendo. After you are promoted you will receive a certificate from the AUSKF (they are sent via the mail and are not awarded at the promotion exam).

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