The concept of Kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the Katana (sword).

The Southern California Kendo Organization (SCKO) was founded with the desire to promote the Japanse art of Swordsmanship. SCKO aims to practice and teach proper Kendo, balancing competitiveness and self-cultivation. The organization has grown significantly since the establishment in 1993 and has gained recognition as a top competitor in the national Kendo community. SCKO consists of roughly 350 members with ages ranging from 3 to over 80. Many members are new to Kendo, but the Sensei and senior students are committed to teaching fundamentals to develop strong Kendo.

• To mold the mind and body,
• And through correct and rigid training,
• To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo,
• To hold in esteem human courtesy and honor,
• To associate with others with sincerity,
• And to forever pursue the cultivation of oneself.

This will make one be able:

• To love his/her country and society,
• To contribute to the development of culture
• And to promote peace and prosperity among all peoples.

Kendo is an art form that utilizes the sword, the body, and the environment. Within kendo, rei-gi (etiquette) is a very important aspect to internalize because without it, kendo becomes mere violence. Not only does rei-gi help the kenshi develop their kendo, it is also respectful of the dojo and of the other kenshi who you will practice with.

Dojo Manners:

1. Greet other members when you arrive ["Good evening" = "Konban-wa"]
2. No shoes in the dojo [take off before entering]
3. Turn off your cell phones
4. Enter the room with a bow while you say “konban-wa” loudly
5. When leaving, bow and say “sayonara” (goodbye) or “oyasumi-nasai” (good night)
6. When another member leaves in such a fashion (#5), respond with “sayonara” or “oyasumi-nasai”

For additional tips, check out the All United States Kendo Federation (AUSKF) guidelines

First-Time Beginners:
T-shirt and shorts/fitting workout pants

for ease of movement, safety, and correction of movements

Kendo Uniform:
Keikogi and hakama

Keikogi-Hakama Manual

Kendo Uniform & Armor:
Bogu

Bogu Manual

For further information on kendo rei-gi, check out the AUSKF Promotion Exam Study Guide.