The Carleton University Kendo Club is a non-profit student-run competitive club that is dedicated to practicing the Japanese martial art of Kendo – the Way of the Sword. We began our club in September 2012. Our goal is to build a strong and dedicated Kendo community right here at Carleton University.
We practice regularly at Carleton University Athletics facilities. We compete at intercollegiate and national events supported by the Canadian Kendo Federation. Outside of practice and tournaments, we hold events and gatherings in which any member, old or new, is welcome to attend. We’re a tight-knit group of friends and are always enthusiastic for new members to join us!
Kendo Eligibility 2023-24
Any student is eligible to join the Carleton University Kendo Club. Trial practices are held the first few weeks of Fall and Winter semester. These practices are free of charge and will give you a comprehensive introduction to Kendo. Our goal is to let everyone have the opportunity to enjoy Kendo!
Upon starting Kendo, the focus for beginners will be on building the fundamental skills necessary for all practitioners. This includes proper footwork, correct posture, how to strike with a shinai (bamboo sword), and building strong spirit. Once you have demonstrated enough skill, and at the discretion of the instructors, you will be eligible to practice in a bogu (sparring armor). Advanced members focus on advanced drills and sparring.
Almost all of our members joined us without any prior knowledge or experience in Kendo, so please don’t be worried if you are completely new!
Once you complete your first few trial practices, you can decide if you would like to continue practicing at Carleton Kendo for the rest of the academic year (September to April). Membership for the 2023-2024 academic year will be $100, which covers an entire year’s worth of practice (approximately 2-3 practices a week).
A beginner to Kendo only needs a shinai (bamboo sword) and a shinai carrying bag to practice for the first few months. After gaining more experience, a member will need to purchase a hakama gi (traditional practice clothes) and then finally a bogu (sparring armor) to practice Kendo fully. The cost for equipment* is as follows:
We have beginner intake periods during the months of September and January. For any inquiries, or if you wish to join, please feel free to reach out to cu.kendo@gmail.com. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Executive Team Contact: cu.kendo@gmail.com
