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Beginner Class is essential

I just got an email from a very experienced martial artist who is interested in taking up Kendo with us. However, due to his busy schedule, he can only come to join our 7.00pm training.

I feel awful to kind of saying "no" to him or anyone who is interested in Kendo.

However, the beginner class is really essential! It is essential for both beginners and seniors in our club.

I hope that we can have our own dojo one day soon. Then, we can train as much as we want to and teach as many beginners as they want!

Below is my mail:

Hi XXX

It's glad to know that you are interested to start Kendo.

I respect all your martial arts experiences and achievements. However, I feel bad to tell you that the beginner class is essential for you to "understand" and "enjoy" Kendo.


As a martial art instructor, I believe that you also put members' safety as the first priority. Fighting with the bamboo sword actually is very dangerous, especially for beginners. We had some "unpleasant" experiences before. Therefore, we require all the beginners need to take the beginner class.

In addition to the safety issue, you won't enjoy Kendo unless you know how to have a successful cut, e.g. get a point from your opponent. No one like to "lose" all thr time, right? :)

I know your busy timetable is a problem. However, we are also confined by the availability of venue and time. So far, we can only take beginners on Thursday evening, from 6.00 to 7.30pm. Once a week.

And, it takes about 4 months time (minimum) to help a beginners learn to start enjoying the art.

As for the Tuesday and Saturdays, we need to take care of the intermediate Kendoists. We are working very hard to lift up their levels. Therefore, we don't have any resource to help beginners on these days.

I do hope that you can understand the situation.

Feel free to pop in any time to see our training. You are welcome to do so.

We will try to find more time and venue for more beginner class. Please keep in touch and I will keep you informed.

Kind regards with respects,
Sam Tsai

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