Introduction
The Concept of Kendo
The Purpose of Practicing Kendo The purpose of practicing kendo is: To mold the mind and body, To cultivate a vigorous spirit, And through correct and rigid training, To strive for improvement in the art of kendo, To hold in esteem human courtesy and honour, To associate with others with sincerity, And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself. This will make one be able: To love his/her country and society, To contribute to the development of culture, And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples. (Established on March 20, 1975)
The Significance of the Shinai
For the correct transmission and development of kendo, efforts should be made to teach the correct way of handling the shinai in accordance with the principles of the sword. Kendo is a way where the individual cultivates one’s mind (the self) by aiming for shin-ki-ryoku-itchi (unification of mind, spirit and technique) utilizing the shinai. The “shinai-sword” should be not only directed at one’s opponent but also at the self. Thus, the primary aim of instruction is to encourage the unification of mind, body and shinai through training in this discipline.
Reiho – Etiquette
When instructing, emphasis should be placed on etiquette to encourage respect for partners, and nurture people with a dignified and humane character. Even in competitive matches, importance is placed on upholding etiquette in kendo. The primary emphasis should thus be placed on instruction in the spirit and forms of reiho (etiquette) so that the practitioner can develop a modest attitude to life, and realize the ideal of koken-chiai (the desire to achieve mutual understanding and betterment of humanity through kendo).
Lifelong Kendo
While providing instruction, students should be encouraged to apply the full measure of care to issues of safety and health, and to devote themselves to the development of their character throughout their lives. Kendo is a “way of life” that successive generations can learn together. The prime objective of instructing kendo is to encourage the practitioner to discover and define their way in life through training in the techniques of kendo. Thus, the practitioner will be able to develop a rich outlook on life and be able to put the culture of kendo into use, thereby benefitting from its value in their daily lives through increased social vigour.
Dated March 14, 2007 : All Japan Kendo Federation Website
Classes
Beginner Class
Beginner Class Schedule: Wednesdays : 6.30pm - 8pm Saturdays : 9am - 10.30am Sundays : 1pm - 2.30pm
The beginners' courses will teach you the basics of Kendo, including etiquette, footwork, striking techniques and various training methods. We will prepare you to practice in the traditional Kendo uniform and armour and, by the end of the course, you will be ready to merge into Seishinkan's normal classes. The beginner course runs for 6 months.
For more information on registrations, please contact us via the contact form below or on our socials.
Regular Class
Membership Fee : $180/month Unlimited number of trainings per month. Option to leave Bogu and Shinai in Dojo.
Class Schedule: Weekdays except Wednesdays : 7.30pm to 9pm Wednesdays : 7.45pm - 9.15pm Saturdays & Sundays : 10.30am - 12.30pm
Seishinkan supplies Kendo equipment, you may approach us to for your bogu and shinai needs!
Contact us for more details
FAQ
Do I need to buy my own Equipment?
Yes, new practitioners will require to buy their own equipment. At the start, you would only require to buy a bamboo sword, or Shinai (竹刀). As the class progresses 1 to 2 months in, you would need to buy the uniform, or Gi Hakama. 3 months into the course, you will need to decide, if you want to continue and will have to buy your own set of Kendo armor, Bogu (防具).
I can only commit once a week, can I join the beginner class?
Yes, if you can only commit once a week, you can join the class. However, your progress would be slower and would require around 6 months to complete the course.
After graduating from the beginner course, what is next?
After the beginner course, you may join our main classes that are held everyday (depending on the daily class attendance). Our main classes timings are as follow: Monday - Fri, except Wednesdays : 7.30pm - 9pm Wednesdays : 7.45pm to 9.15pm Saturdays & Sundays : 10.30am to 12.30pm
Can I join Seishinkan if I am already an existing Kendoka?
Yes! You can reach out to us via the contact form below, via our social media or to our dojo leader, Oliver directly. Our membership fee for existing Kendokas is $180 for unlimited sessions a month.
Where can I purchase Kendo equipment?
There are many online shops you can order from and Seishinkan also sells Kendo equipment at reasonable prices. You can approach us for your Kendo equipment needs.