Scenes from our Kendo Class

Our Kendo class (Japanese swords) takes place on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8pm, and Wednesday from 7pm to 8pm as well. On Tuesdays, we focus mainly on Kendo form and katas, and on Wednesdays, we practice sparring with protective gear (called a "bogu").

Here you can see one of our senseis, Sensei Anthony, teaching one of the children the proper form of the sword. Notice the hakamas (long skirt-like trousers); they serve to mask the leg movements so the opponents are not aware of what the next move will be.

Before beginning sparring, we always warm up and practice a myriad of proper sword techniques. Here Sensei Charley is demonstrating the correct grip when holding the shinai (a bamboo sword used in sparring. The previous picture showed the use of a wooden sword, called a "bokken"). Cheetahs have nothing on Sensei Charley when it comes to utterly blinding movements.

Here we have Sempai Clare and Sempai Paege sparring with great focus. Notice the headgear (it takes the strongest hit easily) and the feet position - experienced Kendo practitioners always will weave on the balls of their feet.

Here's another shot of the Sempais sparring. Notice the straight backs; great posture makes it difficult for your opponent to knock you backwards and gain the upper hand.

Kendo sparring is quite energizing...but as you could see from the earlier pictures, we also concentrate a great deal on form and kendo katas. Below, Sensei Ryan is showing two students the correct way to grasp the sword. Notice how the mirror allows the students to see exactly where their grips would benefit from improving.

As with all of our senseis, Sensei Ryan takes quite a lot of time to explain exactly how to achieve the correct form. Below, notice his sword is out to the right but the students haven't followed - that's because they're paying attention to that move and the one that followed.

Quite often, there will be enough students so class can be broken down into beginners and advanced. Below, Sempei Claere and Sempei Paege are performing the 4th Kenjitsu Kata. This is one of the few movements in which the hakama doesn't hide the feet.

No matter what the rank, every class generally has all students practicing together at one point or another. Here, everyone is following Sensei Ryan in the 3rd Standing Kendo Kata.

Not only are there Kenjitsu Katas, there are also Kendo Katas as well. Below, the students have been paired off to practice together.

And finally, as in with all of our weapons classes, the students who excel will be invited to perform with the Kendo Demonstration team. Below, Sensei Anthony is using a live blade at the Hazlet Community Day festival; it was extremely impressive.

Kendo is great fun and quite a thrill to practice. Remember, all of our weapons instructional classes are included in our tuition! You can learn more about what we offer at our Schedule page.

Please continue to enjoy your visit!

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