Frequently Asked Questions

What are the club fees?
The Tateyama Kendo and Iaido Club fees are:

• $65.00 per month for ages 16 and up
• $35.00 per month for ages 13-15
• $10 per month for kids 7 - 12

The fees are the same regardless of the number of practices attended per month. With the exception of our kids program, registration at Tateyama entitles you to participate in all three martial arts programs we offer.

The only other mandatory fees are to the Canadian Kendo Federation. 

How do I apply to become a member?
Any person interested in becoming a member of Tateyama must first contact a dojo representative and express their intention to begin the application process. Once this is done, arrangements will be made with the dojo representative, to begin the following process:

1. Observe an entire regular practice. This will give you an idea of what typical training entails and the physical demands required.
2. Attend 3 trial practices free of any charge. During these practices you will be introduced to the basic concepts and fundamental techniques of the discipline and will allow you the chance to experience the budo first-hand.
3. If you are still interested you can apply to become a member.

When I become a member do I have to agree to a contract of any kind?
No. We do not have contracts, however our registration is structured around 3 month period, so fees are paid quarterly.

Is instruction in French available?
Not at this time. However, there are a number of Francophone members within the club who can help clarify and explain further any aspect of practice.

Does the club attend gradings, training seminars and competitive tournaments?
Yes, our dojo is a member of the Canadian Kendo Federation and the Ontario Kendo Federation (Kendo Ontario), enabling our dojo to take part in the annual gradings held in Toronto and Montreal. We also regularly send a delegation to various tournaments and seminars held in Ontario, Quebec and the Untied States.

Kendo Questions

Once I am accepted as a member what happens next?
If your application to become a member is accepted, then the following is required:

1. You must begin paying your registration fee. Fees are paid in 3 month intervals ($65 x 3 = $195.00 for ages 16 and up, $35.00 x 3 = $105.00 for ages 13 -15 and $10.00 x 3 = $30.00 for kendo kids (our after school program). Membership fees are due at the BEGINNING of each registration period.
2. You must purchase your own shinai (bamboo practice sword) to use during practice. This can either be purchased from the club (typical price $40) or various online suppliers.
3. You are required to read, understand and sign the club waiver form.
4. You are required to read, understand and agree to follow without exception, the dojo rules.
5. Pay an annual membership fee to the Canadian Kendo Federation.

What is the initial equipment cost?
As a beginner the only essential item you are required to have in order to practice is a shinai (bamboo practice sword). These typically cost $40. This is the only piece of equipment you will need for the first year of practice.

There are other items you may wish to purchase (i.e. shinai carrying bag, keiko-gi, hakama, bokuto), but these are optional in the first 6 - 8 months.

Does the club have equipment available for me to rent?
No. Each member is responsible for supplying and maintaining their own equipment.

Where can I purchase equipment?
The club typically keeps a supply of shinai (bamboo practice swords) on hand to be purchased by members (generally priced around $40). Other equipment can be purchased from Internet suppliers such as:

• Aoi Budogu
• e-bogu
• Kendoshop
• Tozando
• Eguchi USA

Is there a difference between the Sunday, Monday and Thursday practices?

Yes. The 2:30pm to 4:30pm practice on Sunday is geared to all members, but will vary depending on the level of students present. Typically the first the half devoted to fundamentals. Practice during the second half is usually a faster pace with more emphasis on application.

Our Monday schedule includes three practice types:

• 6:00pm - 7:00pm - Kendo Kids - This is our after school program for kids 7 - 12. While this time is aimed at kids and youth, their parents are welcome to stay and encouraged to participate.
• 7:15pm - 8:15pm - Fundamentals Practice - This class is geared toward beginners focusing on the core fundamentals of Kendo. Practice consists of footwork and drills to help build endurance and learn the techniques. All members are welcome.
• 8:30pm - 10:00pm - Open Keiko - This is an open practice where members use the time for sparring, kata or specific drills they would like to practice. Although the time is less structured, members will find a welcome atmosphere with sempai ready to help out.

Thursday practice begins with Kata for the first 30 min. Regular Keiko starts at 9pm. Bogu and non bogu are welcome, however this practice is generally faster paced, emphasizing intermediate or advanced practice methods. Less time is taken for instruction and explanation.

How long will it take for me to be able to wear Kendo bogu (protective armour)?
In general, a new kendo member will not begin practicing in bogu for at least 6 months. The ammount of time depends on individual ability to exhibit an understanding and application of the fundamentals.

Members with prior experience from another dojo may join the bogu practice at any time.

Is there a weekly practice specifically for children?
Yes! We have a kids program on Monday nights at Knoxdale Public School. It runs from 6:00pm - 7:00pm and is aimed at kids 7 - 12. While this time is aimed at kids and youth, their parents are welcome to stay and encouraged to participate.