It can be, but people of all shapes and sizes participate. If you're curious, you should try out a class or two. Most dojos will allow a free trial period. Here is a link to US Kendo dojos. Hopefully you find one near where you're located. auskf.org/dojo/dojolist.htm
When you start out, you won't be in Bogu (full armor). Mainly working on footwork and basic strikes. So for beginners, practices aren't as intense when compared to what an advanced student goes through. Typically they won't allow you to put it on until you've demonstrated that you can perform the basics somewhat competently. This can take anywhere from 2-6 months depending on the Dojo and how often you practice. So the initial investment is only a Shinai and maybe a Bokuto depending how they teach. As far as supplemental workouts, anything that helps with your anaerobic abilities over a long period of time helps (ie HIIT). Also, in Kendo a common injury is to the left Achilles as this is the foot we take off from. So I highly recommend a daily dose of calf raises (both concentric and eccentric motions) to strengthen the lower leg muscles.
This was the best demo I found on RUclips. Really helped. Thanks!
Glad I could help!
Thanks for the demo. It's very helpful!
Thanks for the vid! Really useful. Also, nice cat.
Glad I could help! Yeah, my cat is nice when he's in that spot. Otherwise he's trying to bite people's fingers off when touched haha.
Well explained. Thanks mate!
Thanks so much
thanks for sharing.
Is kendo difficult? Even for some one who's never done rigorous sports at all? What are some advice for a beginner?
It can be, but people of all shapes and sizes participate. If you're curious, you should try out a class or two. Most dojos will allow a free trial period. Here is a link to US Kendo dojos. Hopefully you find one near where you're located.
auskf.org/dojo/dojolist.htm
Shuman55 ok cool. Thanks.
Should one workout before trying out for kendo?
When you start out, you won't be in Bogu (full armor). Mainly working on footwork and basic strikes. So for beginners, practices aren't as intense when compared to what an advanced student goes through. Typically they won't allow you to put it on until you've demonstrated that you can perform the basics somewhat competently. This can take anywhere from 2-6 months depending on the Dojo and how often you practice. So the initial investment is only a Shinai and maybe a Bokuto depending how they teach.
As far as supplemental workouts, anything that helps with your anaerobic abilities over a long period of time helps (ie HIIT). Also, in Kendo a common injury is to the left Achilles as this is the foot we take off from. So I highly recommend a daily dose of calf raises (both concentric and eccentric motions) to strengthen the lower leg muscles.
Shuman55 ok awesome. Very helpful info. Thank you.