Kodokai Dojo

Because most folks aren't exposed to sword training there are often lots of questions regarding the practice. And the many "karate" teachers who teach bogus sword techniques only add to the confusion. We'll try to answer some common questions here, but don't hesitate to call or visit to explore further.

Is it safe?
While there is risk involved with any physical activity we strive to have a safe and comfortable environment. Our floor is padded, which protects your knees and joints, beginners use shinai (bamboo sword) and bokken (wooden sword), and the etiquette of the arts help to insure safety.

Is there any free-sparring?
No.
Kenjutsu is not fencing. It is an old art developed for a severe purpose. In order to free spar much of what we do would have to be modified or watered-down. Ken-jutsu is training for life or death combat.

How is this different from Kendo?
Kendo free-sparring is a competitive contest between two opponents who try to score points by striking each other on specified targets (they are heavily padded). Kenjutsu, on the other hand, is not a sport and has no free sparring. Kenjutsu is for developing skills for killing an enemy armed with a sword. It includes training for multiple attacks as well as disarms and self-protection applications which are not included in kendo.

What equipment will I need?
You'll need a white karate uniform, a bokken and a shinai. These are inexpensive and available at our school. You may wish to purchase an optional uniform consisting of a hakama (loose-fitting pleated pants) and keikogi (jacket). Eventually you may want to consider a practice sword (more on this below).

How often should I attend?
We offer classes three days per week. Some students come one per week, some come less, others come everyday- whatever works for you.

I have bad knees. Am I able to participate?
Sure, but you may need to avoid some of the things that we do. We can easily work around most ailments, the Iaido does require a lot of time on your knees but we can work you on kenjutsu more and Iaido less.

I already have a sword. Can I use it?
No.
We do not sell swords so we have no incentive in restricting your sword use other than safety. You will only be allowed to use a sword after you gain some experience and get permission from the instructor. In that case you will be offered advice regarding what to purchase and what not to purchase. The least expensive sword for your consideration will run around $200.00 but a pretty good beginner sword runs around $300.00. We use a sword called "iaito" which is unsharpened and made specifically for this type of practice. And some people never buy a sword so don't let the potential cost of a sword keep you from joining us.

Am I too old?
You can begin at any age.
You just need to start off slowly and be patient and willing to work around whatever physical inabilities you may have. Techniques can be modified for your practice and you can rest when you need to. This isn't about strength, endurance or competitiveness. It is about learning, enjoying the company of others and developing yourself. 

Are rank and belts used in Kenjutsu?
Yes,
In Japanese arts, everything from dance to calligraphy, rank is used to acknowledge achievements. Rank is useful for organizing our curriculum to optimize the learning experience.

I attend another martial arts school. Can I study the sword at Kodokai?
Maybe.
Our sword arts did not come cheap or easy. We have made multiple trips to Japan, have brought our teachers here, and we continue to venture to Japan to further our studies. These trips are expensive, our training schedule in Japan is grueling, the knowledge we receive is privileged- our teachers are very protective of this art and so are we.
This is a unique martial art- a true warrior tradition. We won't allow you to teach it in another school unless we first properly train you to insure that you can properly represent the art and teach people correctly.  We'll be happy to talk to you about it. Right now, if people want to learn this method they can come to the Kodokai or go to Japan. The art has not been watered-down or commercialized here in America and we want to keep it that way.