May I visit the dojo?
Yes of course. We strongly encourage you to contact us by e-mail for practice times and location. You may come to observe or participate.
How old do I have to be to begin?
All ages are welcome; however, due to the size of the practice area we cannot accept young children. If you are a parent and need clarification or would like to ask us to consider your child for membership, please contact us by e-mail.
Are there special beginner's practices?
Yes. Beginner's instruction starts at 7:30 PM on Thursdays. There will be an hour of beginner's instruction before the regular practice starts. You are welcome to stay after 8:30 PM for the regular practice and observe as the floor will be for the people in bogu only.
What equipment will I have to purchase right away?
It is recommended that you purchase a shinai, or bamboo sword as soon as possible. If you are not sure about joining before you first visit the dojo and want to participate, you may borrow a shinai from one of the other students.
You will not have to purchase the kendo uniform (keikogi and hakama) right away, either. It is important, however, that you wear comfortable workout type clothing so you can move freely and easily. Most people purchase their keikogi and hakama after a few weeks of practice.
What about women or girls?
Many of the top kendo practitioners are women. That's perhaps one of the most enjoyable aspects of kendo in that men and women of all ages and abilities can practice together and learn from each other.
How soon can I practice in armor (bogu)?
That depends on how hard you practice. If you're like most people, you can expect to spend anywhere from 6-8 months working on "basics." During this time, you'll be progressing from beginner’s drills and footwork on your own to more advanced strikes delivered to other more senior club members (sempai). You will also be watched carefully by the sensei (instructor) who will determine when it is appropriate for you to transition into bogu.
Why can't I put the bogu on right away?
This is as much for your safety as it is for the safety of others. Kendo is truly a lifelong pursuit when done properly and one must master the basics. The basics in this case include not only wearing the armor, but learning to deliver and receive strikes safely and with appropriate force.
Are there monthly or annual dues? How much will it cost to join the SB Kendo Dojo?
If you decide you would like to join the Santa Barbara Kendo Dojo, you will need to prepay 3 months dues ($25/month) and join the All U.S. Kendo Federation ($40/year-$25 for under 18 years old) and the Southern California Kendo Federation ($26/year-$14 for under 18 years old).
Why do I need to join the SCKF and AUSKF?
The memberships are necessary in order for you to be covered by the Federation liability insurance, which is required by the Buddhist Temple for our dojo to hold its practice sessions there, and for you to be able to participate in tournaments and take proficiency tests for advancement in rank.
Are there any other practices besides the one on Thursdays?
There are additional practices for advanced kenshi every Monday at Girls' Inc. in Carpinteria from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm. If you are a beginner who is not yet in bogu, you may come to observe. However, Hattanda sensei likes to reserve this hour for instructing the more advanced kenshi only.
You didn't answer my question. May I e-mail somebody at the dojo?
Absolutely. Please send an e-mail to Steve Timbrook, our dojo Treasurer and general information person.