Shozankan Kendo Club

The best way to start kendo is through our beginners course. This is an 8-session/2-month course that teaches the basics of kendo for those with little to no experience of kendo. We encourage those of all ages (14+, younger ages may be accepted following discussion), gender, and physical ability to join.

If you are interested, please read the following information and contact us to let us know!

What do I learn?

Our beginners course aims to teach the fundamentals of kendo. This includes etiquette in kendo, kendo footwork, and how to hold and swing the shinai (bamboo sword). The course culminates with an in-house grading to help its participants to gain an understanding and confidence in their newly developed kendo skills.

When and Where?

Harborne Academy, B15 3JL
Sundays 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Next course: October 4th – November 22nd 2026

What do I need to bring?

You will not need to purchase any kendo equipment for the beginners course. Any necessary equipment will be provided by the club. All that you need to bring are some comfortable exercise clothes. Footwear is not required, as kendo is practiced barefoot.

If you continue practicing kendo after completing the beginners course, the club will inform you when you are ready to purchase your own kendo equipment. We can advise you on trusted suppliers and what equipment to invest in.

British Kendo Association

All practitioners of kendo must become members of the BKA (British Kendo Association). This includes participants of our beginners’ course under the BKA’s risk assessment and insurance rules. A 3-month temporary membership (£10) is all that is required for our beginners course. For more details and to sign up for a temporary BKA membership, please click here. When signing up, please list Shozankan as your host dojo.

Course Fees

The price of the beginners course is £60. After completion of the course, participants can join our club as a full member for a monthly fee of £25 providing access to the Sunday and eventually Tuesday sessions once a necessary level of kendo has been established. This will also require upgrading from a temporary BKA membership to a full BKA membership.