Aberdeen Kendo Club

Courses and are certified by the British Kendo Association. They bring years of experience and a passion for the art to their coaching, helping students develop their skills and reach their full potential.

Aberdeen Kendo Club (AKC) is a martial arts school based in Aberdeen, New Zealand that specialises in the Japanese martial art of Kendo. Kendo is a modern martial art that focuses on the use of the Japanese sword. Practitioners engage in sparring, compete in tournaments, and follow a grading system based on skill and experience.

AKC offers a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn and practise Kendo. The club's mission is to promote the art of Kendo and provide opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement.

There are several reasons why one should consider starting Kendo training at AKC. Firstly, Kendo offers a unique blend of fun and challenge. Using traditional Japanese weapons and armour, students participate in dynamic drills and sparring to improve their technical expertise, precision, and strategic thinking. This offers a lifelong journey of self-improvement, making Kendo both rewarding and enjoyable.

Additionally, Kendo is a physically demanding martial art that can improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Regular training can help with weight management and assist in achieving a healthy body.

Furthermore, Kendo promotes mental discipline, concentration, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Focusing on training can help alleviate daily stress, reduce anxiety, and improve confidence.

Moreover, AKC provides a strong sense of community. The club offers more than just a place to practise martial arts; it provides a supportive community that nurtures mentorship and builds friendships. AKC frequently hosts social events and attends events across the country, providing opportunities for socialising and meeting new people.

In addition to the physical and mental benefits, learning Kendo also provides an opportunity to explore Japanese culture and history. Kendo is deeply rooted in Japanese traditions, etiquette, and philosophy. Aberdeen Kendo Club takes pride in its extensive connexions in Japan, with many members having travelled and trained there.

For those interested in starting their Kendo journey, AKC offers a structured 8-week Beginners Course. This course focuses on developing basic skills and provides the opportunity to practise with experienced instructors and other students in armour. The course is open to anyone aged 15 or older.

Training sessions at AKC are held three times a week at Cults Sports Complex. Visitors from other clubs are welcome to train with AKC, provided they have up-to-date insurance. Membership fees and monthly training fees are affordable, making Kendo accessible to all.

Aberdeen Kendo Club was founded in 2004 by Kazuo Yamazaki Sensei, a 7th Dan Kendo practitioner. Yamazaki Sensei, who currently resides in Tokyo, Japan, regularly visits Aberdeen to host the Annual Thistle Cup Competition and conduct seminars.

The club is proud to have a team of dedicated and experienced coaches. Sophie MacLean, a 4th Dan Kendo practitioner, has been practising Kendo with AKC since 2008. Andrew MacLean, a 3rd Dan Kendo practitioner, has been practising Kendo with AKC since 2015. These coaches have completed coaching courses and are certified by the British Kendo Association.

Overall, Aberdeen Kendo Club offers a vibrant and inclusive environment for individuals to learn, practise, and grow in the art of Kendo. Whether you are seeking physical fitness, mental discipline, community, cultural connexions, or a combination of these, AKC provides a nurturing space for you to embark on your Kendo journey.