No Experience Needed

Two-handed Japanese “Fencing” using a bamboo sword (shinai), and protective armor (bogu).

Experience the tradition and discipline of Japanese Kendo through our beginner's classes. Kendo focuses on pursuing clear & purposeful technique in the face of a resisting partner, thus eliminating any “lucky hits” and encouraging participants to look inward for improvement as much as toward the physical.

 CUT THE STRESS OUT OF YOUR LIFE

The Sioux Falls Sword Academy is a proud member of the SWKIF & AUSKF (Southwest Kendo & Iaido Federation & All United State Kendo Federation)

All kendo ranks achieved through the Sioux Falls Sword Academy are registered, and recognized internationally by the FIK.

Calm, Yet Attentive Mind.

Kumdo- the refinement of the human spirit through practice of the sword.

Kendo- the refinement of the human spirit through practice of the sword.

WHAT does a kendo class look like?

Our class structure follows traditional martial discipline and is designed to be welcoming and fun for all participants, as well as challenging for the more experienced student.  

  1. Classes begin with a formal bow. Showing respect to our training space, and instructors is first and foremost. It is often said that Kendo begins, and ends, with Reiho (Manners). The manner in which we engage with our fellow kenshi is of utmost importance. Exceeding even that of physical techniques pursued.

    1. It should be noted that we have been asked on a number of occasions (always by interested parties who have yet to see or experience a practice) if there are any religious connotations to the formal bow. There are not. It is a moment of focus and preparation, meditation if you will, for the class ahead.

  2. General warm-up and stretching. Basic physical motions to get the body ready to go.

  3. Ashi-Sabaki (footwork). Various basic footwork drills are reviewed. Most commonly students will move from one end of the dojo to the other, and back again, while performing prescribed routines.

  4. Kihon/Suburi practice. Practice with the shinai (bamboo sword) has now begun. Students are lead through various exercises and attacks. The level of difficulty of course being adjusted based on the general ability level of the kenshi in attendance.

  5. Bogu (armor). Students whom have demonstrated a sufficient understanding of the basics of Kendo may now don their protective “armor”, called bogu. Practice in bogu is often an extension of the earlier suburi practice in which students will now practice with a willing partner while performing various attacks and defenses.

  6. Keiko “sparring”. Keiko, or “sparring”, constitutes the true foundations of Kendo in that it is the direct application of technique verses a resisting opponent. The hard-earned ability to maintain composure, and pureness of technique, in the face of full resistance is truly the basis of why Kendo is said to be “The Refinement of the Self, Through Study of the Sword.”.

    1. Keiko is not conducted at every practice, yet is commonly the most looked forward portion of every practice! Beginner students benefit from watching higher level participants and the focus demonstrated therein. Students must have direct permission to participate in this portion of class, and will not receive such until having demonstrated both an acceptable level of the basics of Kendo, as well as having upheld the expectations of Reiho and treating their fellow classmates with care.

  7. Classes end with a formal bow. Students reflect on what they have learned, and are encouraged to endeavor to keep said lessons in mind until their next practice session.

Join us at our new facility @ 1516 S Sycamore Ave, Sioux Falls

 

An excellent opportunity for students to grow personally as well as physically.

 

OUR MISSION

To continually pursue a higher level of both physical and mental/spiritual excellence through dedicated practice and adherence to the tenets our respective arts

“Study strategy over the years and achieve the spirit of the warrior. Today is victory over yourself of yesterday; tomorrow is your victory over lesser men.”
— Miyamoto Musashi

ART OF THE SWORD

INTERESTED IN CLASS?

Email: SIOUXFALLSSWORD@OUTLOOK.COM

OR  CALL-605-388-2415 (jesse(instructor))

  • No experience? No problem. Just come on in, there is always a group of new students at the beginner level to meet and have fun practicing with!

  • Just wear something comfortable.

  • Don't worry about the equipment. The Sioux Falls Sword Academy keeps a small stock of school equipment on hand for beginners to use.

  • Beginners receive direct instruction in the basics of Kendo techniques

  • Did we mention the first class is free?! Our goal is simple - to provide the best instruction, for the absolute lowest cost.

  • No contracts.