Waikato Kendo Club

Photo Credit: Heathen Light Over the last year or so of practising Kendo, I have found it to be a truly wonderful experience that has had a positive effect on almost all areas of my life. One of the things Kendo has helped me with the most is anxiety, something I have dealt with throughout my adult life. I almost didn’t attend my first lesson because I felt so anxious about starting something new. Now, at my most recent grading, I didn’t feel anxious at all. I knew that, at the very worst, even if I didn’t pass, I would learn where I was on my Kendo journey and what I needed to improve and work on. Over the past year, I have really enjoyed taking my first steps on what I hope will be a lifelong Kendo journey. “In Kendo, discovering where you are is already part of becoming who you will be.”

  Little Samurai Kendo – Parents’ Information Welcome to our  Little Samurai Kendo class. This page is for parents and caregivers whose children are enrolled, or considering enrolling, in our junior Kendo programme. We understand that choosing an activity for your child is an important decision, and we sincerely thank you for trusting us to guide and support your child through their Kendo journey. What Is Little Samurai Kendo? Little Samurai Kendo is a junior programme based on Japanese Kendo (swordsmanship), adapted to be age-appropriate, safe, and positive for children. Kendo is not just about learning techniques. It is a structured activity that supports children’s physical development, mental wellbeing, character building, and social skills . Our programme is designed to align closely with New Zealand school values , with a strong focus on wellbeing and lifelong learning. Our Teaching Philosophy We focus on helping children grow in four key areas: Physical Wellbeing Devel...

What is Kendo? Kendo is a modern Japanese martial art based on traditional swordsmanship. It is both physical training and a cultural practice , emphasising discipline, respect, etiquette, and personal development alongside technique. Do I need previous martial arts or sports experience? No. Kendo beginners start from the very basics, and no prior experience is required. Am I fit enough to start Kendo? Yes. You do not need a high fitness level to begin. Training intensity increases gradually and improves fitness over time. What should I wear to my first class? Please wear comfortable sports clothing such as a T‑shirt and track pants or shorts. Training is done barefoot. Do I need to buy equipment before starting? No. All beginner equipment is provided. Your instructor will advise you later if and when equipment purchase is needed. What will I learn in the beginner class? Beginners learn etiquette, posture, footwork, shinai handling, ...

Post grading Kendo reflection -   Felix Dinh Last week I took part in the Waikato Kendo grading , and it was a very important experience for me. First time grading ever, I was nervous before it even started because I did not know if I could show everything that I’ve been practicing and training. When I put on my bogu and stepped into the grading area, I was of course nervous and tense but also tried to keep it calm because at the same time I felt excited to finally test myself. During the grading I tried to remember all the things that Sam Sensei, Marleen Sensei, and all other senpai had taught me, such as correct movement, right techniques, or effective footwork, but turns out remembering is totally different from actually doing it. Because grading carries almost the same amount of pressure as a competitive Shiai . I think with the differences being the outcome, for Shiai it’s about who lost and who won, however for grading, you only get one chance to show everyone what you’r...

Jingee‘s insight I’ve always been passionate about sports—whether it’s extreme activities, strength training, or gentler forms of exercise, I’ve consistently thrown myself into them with enthusiasm. But kendo has offered me an entirely different kind of experience. It demands strength, but it is not only about strength. It requires control, yet it is not merely about control. It calls for observation, reaction, an awareness of one’s own body, and a sharp reading of the opponent’s movements. Among all my athletic pursuits, it stands out as something truly unique. I hope that in the days ahead, I can continue to study and practice it with genuine dedication. Orion's Reflection on My Kendo Practice I have been learning kendo for half a year now. During this time, I have felt a new focus that I never had before, and I have gained a lot. First, about the mind . Kendo helps me give full attention to every movement and every strike. When I hit Men, I feel how the body and spirit work toge...

You are warmly invited to join us and begin your New Year’s journey as a Modern Samurai. Beginners Class (age 14 and above): 1.30 - 2.30pm, Saturdays Little Samurai Class (age under 14): 2.30 - 3.30pm, Saturdays Intermediate and Advanced Class: 3.30 - 6.00pm, Saturdays Starting Dates Term 1: Saturday 17 and 31 January ( no training on 24 January ) Term 2: Saturday 7 and 14 March Term 3: Saturday 25 July and 1 August  Term 4: Saturday 31 October and 7 November Course Information No previous experience required. Open to all genders, ages 6 to 60 . Your first lesson is free (trial lesson). Day 1 Kendo Beginners – FAQ Little Samurai Kendo – Parents’ Information Monthly Membership Fees Primary school students: $50.00 Intermediate & high school students: $60.00 Tertiary students: $80.00 Adults: $100.00 Family Discounts Second family member: 50% off Third family member and beyond: free Learning Objectives By the end of the course,  you will be ready to put on Bogu (armour)...

Rototuna High School Kendo Club 2025 Our 2025 Kendo program at Rototuna High School has now come to an end, and I want to say how proud I am of all the students for their effort and commitment this year. Every Friday afternoon has been something I’ve looked forward to — not just for the practice, but for the energy, enthusiasm, and fun you all bring. It has been wonderful to see you challenge yourselves, support each other, and grow through Kendo. I’ve really enjoyed spending this time with you, and I wish each of you all the very best in whatever comes next — whether that’s continuing with Kendo or simply carrying the lessons you’ve learned into your everyday life. A special thank-you also goes to Rototuna High Schools for supporting this program and giving us the chance to share Kendo together. Sam Tsai Renshi 6 Dan Waikato Kendo Club