[Anaedilla]

Hi Guys, first time post from England here!
I am starting up Kendo (tonight actually) and am concerned about the language barrier. I know that I will probably overcome it, but having read through some posts here and some sites on the internet, but I worry about not grasping the etiquette and language of the sessions. I see all the things about thanking people you have practiced with etc, and worry that I will forget it, or offend someone unintentionally.
Any Tips?
Cheers!
Shep

[muytreda]

Shep,

Welcome to kendo!

You will be shown all of the necessary rules of etiquette when you first start class. One of the senior students or your sensei will help you with it.

You will pick up the language as you go, but there is a really nice glossary of terms on the Halifax Kendo Club's website. www.halifaxkendo.org

It describes not only the terms, but also what is being said at class, so you can refer to it and know what's expected. In the meantime, just follow along with what everyone else does. You'll pick it up quickly, and will be comfortable with the language. Also, don't try to go at the same pace as everyone else, it's better to go slowly and do it correctly and then build up speed than to try to keep up and do it incorrectly. As my sensei says, "Do your own kendo, don't worry about anyone else's kendo."

Once again, welcome!

[ApporpSothe]

Thanks! Its slightly daunting, I've been interested in Kendo for some time (I'm reading Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa for the second time) but actually taking that step and go to a dojo is quite scary.
Im really looking forward to it though.

[stoneeZef]

I don't think there is any real language barrier on kendo. The language used is mostly jargon which even in Japanese is almost only used with martial arts.
Just go and copy what other people are doing and you should be fine .

[WumibBesowe]

Welcome to Kendo World Shep,

Joe said it about all, you can learn alot from your Sempai (seniors)

Just listen well and look well at how your sensei and sempai explains things to you.

[Anydayhybeall]

You should not have any problems. I have heard that they speak English at Oxford, although they do so with a funny accent.

[CorpoRasion]

welcome to kendo. as many others have already said your instructor will go over everything you need to know about etiquette and such. Have fun

[Unlopssesuj]

Well I had my first session, and a blister on my toe to prove it!
It was a lot of fun, and although it didn't feel like hard work at the time, my arms are kiling me!
Roll on next week!


And by the way Ignatz, to you! lol

[RafaelYV]

Hiya Shep,

Good luck with a long and rewarding road. It's hard work, but very much worth it.

Ignatz,

You da man.

[moohassinny]

Scott, us brits gotta stick together!
By the way, the pics of Ganryu Island were great.

[Zdfjpbth]

But Shep, I've got the love of Jesus in these smiling Irish eyes, ya just gotta love me.
Glad you had a good class, keep going, only 9,999 more to go.

[drmarshallusa]

Is that all?

[allmyflights]

Is that all?

thatssss the spirittt!!