Located in Sydney, Australia, Kendo The Sydney Club is a sports club dedicated to the practise and promotion of Kendo. With a focus on skills, spirit, unity, and self-reflection, the club offers a comprehensive course schedule that combines hands-on experience with knowledge-based teaching.
For beginners, the club offers a dedicated course that covers all the basics of Kendo, including etiquette, footwork, striking techniques, and various training methods. By the end of the course, participants will be ready to join the regular classes offered by Sydney Kendo Club. The club ensures that beginners are properly prepared by providing traditional Kendo uniforms and armour.
Experienced Kendo practitioners are also welcome at Sydney Kendo Club. The club's dojo in Willoughby holds training sessions on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which are open to both club members and visiting Kendoka from affiliated clubs of the Australian Kendo Renmei (AKR) or the Federation of International Kendo (FIK). Additionally, senior grade ji-geiko sessions are held on Mondays at another location in Willoughby. Those who have never practised Kendo can find information about beginners' courses on the club's website.
Kendo, often referred to as “The Way of the Sword,” has a unique purpose and concept. It aims to discipline the human character through the principles of the katana (sword). By practising Kendo, individuals can cultivate a vigorous spirit, mould their mind and body, and strive for improvement in the art of Kendo. The practise also encourages the values of human courtesy, honour, sincerity, and the pursuit of self-cultivation.
Kendo promotes not only personal growth but also contributes to the development of culture, love for one's country and society, and peace among all individuals.
Instructors at Sydney Kendo Club emphasise the importance of a proper mindset and understanding of Kendo. The correct handling of the shinai (bamboo sword) is taught in accordance with the principles of the sword. Kendo practitioners are encouraged to unite mind, spirit, and technique through training, aiming for shin-ki-ryoku-itchi (unification of mind, spirit, and technique).
Etiquette and respect are core values at Sydney Kendo Club. Emphasis is placed on upholding etiquette and fostering a dignified and humane character. Even in competitive matches, the club values the spirit and forms of reiho (etiquette). This approach cultivates a modest attitude towards life and encourages the promotion of mutual understanding and betterment of humanity through Kendo.
Sydney Kendo Club holds the safety and health of its students in high regard. The club encourages lifelong learning and urges students to pay attention to safety measures and their own well-being.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Sydney Kendo Club provides a welcoming and supportive environment for learning and practising Kendo. Join the club today and embark on a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and personal growth through the art of Kendo.