Questions about starting Kendo?

Kendo is a Japanese martial art centered on disciplined practice with the shinai (bamboo sword). Training develops technique, focus, respect, self-control, and character through continued practice.

At LCKA, students learn Kendo through fundamentals, etiquette, technique, partner practice, Kata, Keiko, ranking examinations, and competition as they progress.

No. Complete beginners are welcome at LCKA, and no previous Kendo or martial arts experience is required.

Beginners receive instruction in fundamental movements and techniques while developing a strong foundation for continued training.

Yes. New students may attend up to two free trial classes before joining LCKA.

Contact LCKA before your first visit so we can help you know what to expect.

Regular practice is held Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

LCKA welcomes youth ages 7 and up.

Youth, teens, and adults train during the same regular practice sessions, with instruction appropriate to each student's experience level.

Yes. Adults can begin Kendo at LCKA with no previous Kendo or martial arts experience.

Beginners develop fundamentals progressively through regular instruction and practice.

Yes. Youth, teens, and adults train together during the same Monday and Wednesday practice sessions.

Instruction is adapted to experience level, and beginners receive dedicated fundamental instruction during the more advanced portion of practice.

Yes. Because youth and adults practice during the same regular training sessions, parents and children can train together.

Kendo can provide families with an opportunity to learn and develop through the same discipline.

Regular LCKA practice is held Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

A typical two-hour practice includes approximately one hour devoted to fundamentals, followed by approximately one hour of technique development and practice appropriate to each student's level.

During the more advanced portion of practice, beginners receive separate instruction in fundamental movements and techniques.

Yes. Experienced practitioners looking for continued Kendo training are welcome to visit LCKA.

LCKA training includes continued development in fundamentals, technique, Kata, Keiko, ranking, and competition.

Regular monthly tuition is $100. Sibling tuition is $70 per month per sibling.

Federation registration is separate from LCKA monthly tuition.

Beginners only need a shinai (bamboo sword) to begin regular training.

As students progress, appropriate Kendo clothing and equipment are introduced gradually.

Full protective armor, called bogu, is generally introduced later, typically around six months into training, depending on the student's progress and readiness.

Yes. LCKA students are required to register separately with the appropriate Kendo federation through the designated federation registration system.

Federation registration is separate from LCKA monthly tuition and is required for insurance coverage, tournament participation, and rank examinations.

La Cañada Kendo Academy is a member dojo of the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF) and the Western Kendo Federation (WKF).

La Cañada Kendo Academy trains at 4490 Cornishon Ave, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011.

Students come from La Cañada Flintridge and surrounding communities including La Crescenta, Montrose, Altadena, Sunland-Tujunga, Pasadena, Glendale, and beyond.