Frequently Asked Questions

How old to I have to be to start training?

Due to the weapons-based nature of our art, the minimum age is 16. Anything below this is by invitation only - usually if the parent or guardian is already training with us.

Is it dangerous?  Do you spar with weapons?

No. All beginners start with a bokuto (wooden sword) until they get used to handling a weapon. Only then do they progress to steel swords. Weapons kata were created in order to practice safely and the gentlest of hits from a sword (steel or wooden) would be very dangerous - therefore free-sparring is not practiced. We leave the full-contact elements of the sword arts to kendoka, who can practice safely with shinai (bamboo swords) and armour.

More FAQs added soon