Kendo Dojo Checklist for Beginners

Use this checklist when visiting or researching a kendo dojo. A legitimate, beginner-friendly dojo should meet most or all of these points.

1. Federation Affiliation (Most Important – Described above)

☐ The dojo is affiliated with a national federation that belongs to the
→ International Kendo Federation
☐ In the U.S., the dojo is affiliated with the
→ All United States Kendo Federation
☐ The dojo can clearly explain its federation lineage when asked

🚩 Red flag: “Independent federation” or “our own ranking system”

2. Qualified Instruction

☐ Head instructor (sensei) holds a recognized dan rank
☐ Rank was awarded through an official federation, not privately
☐ Sensei actively participates in seminars, shinsa, or federation events
☐ Senior students assist beginners during practice

3. Proper Beginner Curriculum

☐ Beginners start without bogu (armor)
☐ Focus on:

  • Basic footwork (ashi-sabaki)
  • Grip and posture
  • Suburi and kihon
  • Etiquette (reiho)

☐ Bogu is introduced gradually, not immediately

4. Etiquette & Dojo Culture

☐ Bowing in/out and correct dojo etiquette are taught
☐ Japanese terminology is used correctly (men, kote, do, tsuki)
☐ Seniors model respectful behavior toward juniors
☐ Safety and mutual respect are emphasized over “winning.”

5. Rank Examinations & Progression

☐ Dojo offers access to official kyu/dan examinations
☐ Instructor explains:

  • Typical timelines for testing
  • What is expected at each level
    ☐ Ranks are recognized outside the dojo and internationally

6. Tournament & Seminar Access

☐ Dojo participates in official tournaments
☐ Members are encouraged (not forced) to compete
☐ Dojo attends:

  • Seminars
  • Godo-keiko
  • Regional or national events

7. Equipment Guidance (No Pressure Sales)

☐ Beginners are advised to wait before buying bogu
☐ Dojo helps with:

  • Sizing
  • Shinai selection
  • Care and maintenance

☐ No requirement to buy expensive gear immediately

8. Safety & Training Environment

☐ Warm-ups and stretching are part of practice
☐ Injuries are taken seriously
☐ Tsuki is restricted or carefully supervised
☐ Dojo space is clean and appropriate for kendo

9. Transparency & Communication

☐ Practice schedule and fees are clearly explained
☐ Trial classes or observation are allowed
☐ Expectations for attendance and behavior are reasonable
☐ Dojo welcomes questions from beginners

10. Overall Impression (Trust Your Instincts)

☐ Students appear respectful and supportive
☐ Atmosphere is disciplined but welcoming
☐ Beginners are encouraged, not intimidated
☐ You feel safe, motivated, and respected