Carleton Kendo [top] Guide

Very safe with bogu . Most injuries are blisters, strained calves, or mild bruises. No concussions typical. Tsuki (throat thrust) is controlled.

The club is open to Carleton students, faculty, staff, and often community members (with some restrictions). It provides structured training in kendo – the Japanese art of swordsmanship using bamboo swords ( shinai ) and protective armour ( bogu ). carleton kendo

Kendo improves fitness, but you should be able to jog lightly for 5 minutes and kneel in seiza (modified sitting allowed for knee issues). Very safe with bogu

Show up to a free practice in a t-shirt and sweatpants. Bow at the door. Say “Onegai shimasu” (please teach me). And begin. Last updated: January 2025. Always confirm practice times and fees via official club channels before attending. Tsuki (throat thrust) is controlled

Yes, but you must attend the new beginner intake session (usually weeks 2–3 of each term). Contact club in advance.

Not religious. Bowing to kamiza respects tradition, not deity worship. No meditation or chanting required.

Held 2x/year at Carleton (internal examiner, usually 5th dan). Fee ~$20. 7.2 Dan grades (black belt equivalent – shodan to hachidan ) | Dan | Minimum time after previous | Exam venue | |-----|----------------------------|-------------| | Shodan (1st dan) | 1 year (as 1 kyu) | Ottawa or Toronto (KO grading) | | Nidan (2nd dan) | 1 year | KO regional | | Sandan (3rd dan) | 2 years | KO or Kendo Canada | | Yondan+ | 3+ years | Kendo Canada or FIK (Japan) |