Practice

Practice Program Breakdown

Beginner Basics

Brand new members will begin their training in this group. Basic strikes, etiquette, and footwork will be the primary focus of this group. It is advised to practice 2 out of the 3 practices a week for maximum repetition and learning. New members will have a chance to experience both the competitive and cultural aspects of kendo to determine what is right for them. Members in this group may attend tournaments as spectators and learn by watching bogu members. Bogu members will get to know new beginners to help integrate them onto our team. 

Duration:

1 Semester

Equipment:

Gym Clothes

Water Bottle

Lock for Locker

Shinai (Team Order at the Beginning of the Semester)

Keikogi and Hakama (Uniform w/ Team Order Near the End of the Semester)

Focus:

Kihon (Men, Kote, Do)

Footwork

Etiquette

Suburi

Beginner Bogu

After a semester in beginner basics, members will join the Beginner Bogu Group. This group will primarily focus on relearning all kihon with their bogu on. As the basics are solidified we'll integrate waza and more advanced techniques at a slow pace. Beginner bogu will slowly integrate into the main bogu group and take part in competitions and rank tests. Those with high competitive aspirations and skills will be scouted for training on the D Team. All members in the Beginner Bogu group will be eligible to run for administrative positions on the Executive Board.

Duration:

1 Semester

New Equipment:

Bogu

Bokken

Focus:

Kihon (Men, Kote, Do)

Footwork

Kata

Basic Waza

Intermediate Bogu

Once members are comfortable they will join the Intermediate Bogu Group which is the second highest group on the team. This group focuses on enhancing all basics learned and making small improvements to already taught concepts. Advanced waza will be integrated into trainings and keiko will be an essential part of practices. Most members will remain a part of the Intermediate Group unless scouted to join the D Team for competitive purposes. 

New Equipment:

None

Focus:

Kihon (Men, Kote, Do)

Footwork

Advanced Waza

Keiko