KENDO America
Getting
Started
Our organization has a mentor program to get kendo started
in your area. The most critical roadblock to having kendo across America is the
lack of qualified instructors. Individuals are not considered a fully qualified
instructor (Sensei) until they have reached the level of 5th degree black belt.
This does not mean that lower level individuals cannot start and run a kendo
club, it just means that they need help. We are willing to provide that help.
Provided you are able to manage the following requirements we will give you
technical assistance to get started. We will provide an instructor for seminars
of at least 5th degree at no charge for instruction.
You must provide the following:
1.
Roundtrip airfare for the instructor.
Airport pickup and return.
2.
Food and lodging for the duration of
the seminar.
3.
A minimum of 10 individuals in your
group to get started.
4.
A permanent facility in which to
practice that is suitable for kendo practice.
5.
At least twice yearly seminars for the
first two years.
6.
An organized club structure to insure
stability and longevity.
7.
You will video tape the seminar for
reference between visits.
We will provide membership in our organization that will
give you access to regional, national and international organizations. Current
annual membership fees which includes liability and medical insurance are :
·
$60 per year for adults
·
$45 for age 17 and under and black belt
·
$30 for age 17 and under
Also provided:
1.
Promotional exams with international
certification. You will have to pay the examination and certification fees.
2.
Instructional videos, Fundamental Kendo
vol 1, 2, & 3 plus Kendo Kata $21 plus shipping.
3.
Seminar generally consisting of Friday,
Saturday and Sunday. Longer seminars may be possible depending on the
instructors schedule.
4.
Access to discount equipment and
uniforms, 25-50 % less than catalogue or web site price.
5.
Materials on teaching, class syllabus
and lesson plans.
Mentorship as long as required.
About
Promotional Examination
Through membership in our organization you will have access
to ranks, which are internationally recognized by all International Kendo
Federation members. Depending upon the level being tested for the exam may be
at your club or travel may be required.
Instructional
Videos
The All Japan Kendo Federation has produced a 3 part
instructional video narrated in English that begins with basic kendo and
continues on to advanced technique. In addition to these there is a video of
the basic forms of kendo called Kata.
Knowledge and understanding of the kata is essential to attaining higher level
kendo. Additionally kata is a required part of the kendo rank examination for 1
Kyu and above.
About
the Seminar
The first seminar is an introduction to kendo. It will cover
the basics of kendo, how to conduct a kendo practice, and the etiquette among
many other things. The basics include footwork, swing, proper strikes, manners
of the dojo, posture, proper grip and so on. Later seminars would be intended
to progress the skill and knowledge of the group based on the current level.
Generally the seminar would be all or part of Friday, all
day Saturday, and at least half day on Sunday.