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, gender, and physical ability to join.
We are also hosting a FREE taster session for you to try out kendo before committing yourself to the course.
If you are interested in joining the taster session and/or the beginners course, please read the following information and contact us to let us know!
When and Where?
Harborne Academy, B15 3JL
Sundays 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Taster Session: December 13th 2026
Next Beginners Course: January 10th – February 28th 2027
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.
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 on BKA memberships, please click here.
Course Fees
The price of the beginners course is £60 (not including BKA membership cost).
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.
Want to join a taster session or beginners course?
Contact us here!
