6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
1943 S. El Paso Ave.
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
>This program is required for any student wishing to pursue advanced kendo training at Mushinkan.
>Students holding an IKF recognized rank of 3rd kyu or higher may join the advanced classes, directly. Students with prior experience but lesser rank will be evaluated for placement in the advanced class on a case-by-case basis.
> If there are seats available, walk-in registrations will be accepted until the third class meeting.
>Anyone who attended but did not successfully complete a previous introductory program must reregister and successfully complete the program before progressing to the advanced class.
> Anyone who has completed a previous introductory program may repeat the program if desired. Students in the advanced class are encouraged to also participate in the beginner's class to further refine their basics.
> The minimum age for registration is 14 years old.
> Students may voluntarily purchase additional equipment or uniform items at any time. Students should consult with an instructor or senior student regarding uniform and equipment rules and regulations before making any purchases.
Upon successful completion of the introductory program, students who exhibit the necessary skills may continue with the core group on a monthly registration basis. Here, basics will be further refined and advanced techniques taught. Eventually skills are developed to where students can don the armor and freely practice against a teacher or equally skilled partner. For those requiring further refinement of essentials skills before joining the advance training may repeat the introductory program as many times as desired/required.
For students taking the class to fulfill a school PE requirement, a certificate of attendance/completion will be provided upon request.
A: Registration and class fees are handled on the first night of each program quarter. Just let one of the instructors know you are there to register and they will help you get started. Note that class size is limited and registration is on a first come, first serve basis. Students may pre-registration via e-mail, but if the pre-registered student does not attend the first class of the session, or fails to pay the registration fee on the first night, his/her seat in the class will be given to the next student on the waiting list.
Q: Is there an age limit to joining?
A: We accept students age 14 and above. Unfortunately, since we do not have the resources for a youth class, we can not accept students below the age of 14.
Q: Are there make-up classes if I miss a practice?
A: Regrettably the answer is no. Since all of the instructor staff are volunteers and donate their time and instruction for the pleasure of sharing their knowledge, the only classes available are those that are scheduled as a part of the program. If a class is missed, however, an instructor or senior student will be able to help you catch-up on the missed instruction during the next class.
***NOTE***
*The program has an attendance rule for continuation. A 70% attendance is required to stay enrolled. To put is simply, a student can miss not more that three classes within the ten-week session. If a student is absent for a fourth time he/she will be dropped from the program and must wait to enroll in the following session if they wish to continue. In such cases, there will be no refund of fees paid.
**For Students enrolled to fulfill a school PE requirement, the attendance rules of your school will apply.
Q: What happens at the end of the Introductory Program?
A: After completion of the Introductory program, students can opt to continue their training, registering on a monthly basis. Such students will continue to participate in the first half of class to further refine their fundamentals. As progress is made, students will also participate in the second-hour of practice where they will participate in advanced dirlls and instruction. Eventually, skills are developed to where students can don the armor and freely practice against a teacher or equally skilled partner. There is a monthly program fee of $25 for students age 18 and below, and $35 for students above the age of 18. There is also a $10 monthly equipment rental fee for students using school armor.
Q: What do I need to start?
A: The only things you need to begin practicing are comfortable, non-restricting clothing. About mid-way through the program, student's will be required to purchase a shinai (bamboo fencing stave). The school will order the correct number and sizes of shinai based on the enrollment and will have them available for student purchase. The average price of a shinai is approximately $30.
Q: Will I need a uniform?
A: The uniform (keiko-gi & hakama) is not required for beginning students. However, students are free to purchase the uniform at any time.
Q: Is there any other equipment required besides the shinai (fencing stave)?
A: No, not for the introductory program. As beginning students’ progress to wearing the bogu (armor), the school has a small number of sets for general use. There is no additional fee for the use of this equipment by introductory program participants; however, a $10 a month usage fee applies to students continuing beyond the introductory program.
***NOTE***
* Introductory program students should not expect to use the armor during the six-week program, as it typically takes three to four-months of training to develop the skills necessary for practicing in armor.
** Students who progress to using the armor will be required to purchase their own set of armor within six months of achieving this skill level.
Q: When can I purchase my own/additional equipment?
A: Students can purchase uniforms and equipment at any time. However, students should consult with the instructor before making any purchases, as there are strict international rules and regulations governing the uniforms and equipment. It is also advisable to get shopping advice from the instructor or senior students to help you be a “Smart shopper” – you don’t want to be taken by cut-rate dealers selling poor quality goods.
Q: Where can I purchase uniforms and equipment?
A: For students interested in purchasing uniforms and/or equipment, we recommend visiting the website for Eguchi USA. At this site, you can get service in English and see a full range of merchandise and prices. We have traded with Eguchi for many years and we have always received top quality service and goods.
Q: Is there anywhere I can look for used kendo armor?
A: Occasionally, we have seen some pretty good bargains on e-bay, but we strongly caveat any online purchases with two words: “BUYER BEWARE.” As far as other resources for used equipment, there really aren’t any. For some strange, unknown reason people who have purchased kendo armor and later discontinue practicing kendo never want to part with the armor. It’s a curious thing, indeed.
Q: What is the instructor’s qualifications
A: <click here for Uchida sensei's bio>
