[Erwtbimp]

Originally posted by The_Highlander
Do I need to buy my own sword, and are there requirements that it has to make? Do I have to buy a uniform or something or does that depend on the dojo? In all likelyhood, you will not need to buy anything for your first class. Call the dojo you are thinking of going to and ask if you can watch or partake in a class and if you need to bring anything. If you are going to participate in practice, most likely you will just need yourself and some clothing to sweat in. If you decide to stick with kendo, you will eventually buy yourself some shinai (bamboo practice sword) and keikogi/hakama...

Cheers,

[feAilei1]

Dont splash the cash yet.....

Definitely go along and watch the first time. I was really peeved when I was told I could only watch on my first visit....then I loved every minute of it! Two hours flew by - from close range its a pretty amazing spectator sport....

Watching will help you understand the formality and structure to the practice. Talk to some people there and ask them why they do Kendo. If you want to spend some money, buy a book for a few bucks and learn a little of the history and terminology. And if you have a choice of dojo, then visit all that you can and see if one feels "right".

And has been said before, dont feel bad if its not for you - its not right for everyone.

Our (fantastic) website has a lot of good information on Kendo terms, books etc etc

www.hizen.org

Good luck



Dave