CLASSES
class structure
Our instructors are based in Japan, and to ensure students learn directly from the source, classes are taught from a dedicated studio with a live video feed from Japan displayed on a projector screen. In addition, usually once or twice a year, our instructors travel throughout Europe and teach in person in London.
While this approach may be unusual for a martial arts school, we believe it offers exceptional value and ensures authentic, accurate instruction straight from Japan.
Classes are taught by Sensei Hiromi Matsumura or, when available, Sensei Tetsuro, and are supported by experienced Black Belt assistants in Japan. In the UK, students are guided by our captains, Jon and Barty, who run the school and support you throughout your Kengido journey. Whilst we still follow the formalities common in Japanese martial arts and culture, our classes are a relaxed environment where you are encouraged to ask questions and have fun.
Please note we do not offer online classes, these are in person only. Also, we do not use real Samurai swords, we use wooden training swords (bokken) so it is safe for anyone to try, however, being physically fit, having previous or ongoing experience with other sports, dance, acting or martial arts is highly recommended.
WHEN AND WHERE
Classes currently take place three times a month on Sundays from 10am - 12pm, primarily at The Place, 16 Flaxman Terrace, London WC1H 9AT or Central YMCA KX, 120 Cromer St, London WC1H 8BS, depending on the day. Either venue is just a short 5 min walk from Kings Cross Underground station.
You must let us know before attending. Please send an e-mail to info@samuraikengido.co.uk to find out when and where the next class is taking place.
BELt SYSTEM
10 KYU
9 & 8 KYU
7 & 6 KYU
5 & 4 KYU
3 & 2 KYU
Jun 1st KYU
1st KYU
1st DAN
HOW TO JOIN
Step1 - Trial class: £10
Before joining the school, you must attend a trial class in person. As class sizes are kept limited to ensure a high standard of instruction and safety, trial places are only available during certain periods. Please contact us before attending to check current availability.
To arrange a trial, email us at info@samuraikengido.co.uk for payment details and information on upcoming classes. In your message, please include a brief introduction about yourself, such as your age and any previous or current martial arts or sports experience.
step 2 - ENROLLMENT: £80
A one time fee that enrols you into the UK school and into the system in Japan as an official student. This will also include your white belt (obi), which will be shipped from Japan once you enrol.
You will also have exclusive access to a members WhatsApp group and a members area on the website where you’ll find the class schedule for the whole year, terminology and video content with everything you need to know to start your journey as a Kengido student.
step 3 - MONTHLY FEE: £50
Access to 3 classes a month, sometimes a free bonus 4th class depending on the month.
The payment for each month is due on by the 5th of that corresponding month.
Please note we require a minimum one calendar months’ notice before cancellation/freezing of your membership.
Lastly, there is an annual membership renewal fee of £30, due in December of each year.
Official bokkens and uniforms are sold separately and must be purchased through the school. You will be required to purchase your own bokken after 1 or 2 months in the school. You will be required to purchase your own uniform after 3 months in the school.
We understand that the upfront cost of joining may be challenging for some, so flexible payment options can be arranged depending on your circumstances. Please ask us about this if you need it.
SCHOOL RULES
DOJO PRACTICES
1. Always bow before entering the space, and before leaving.
2. Please aim to be there a bit before 10am if possible, so that we are ready to go by 10am and we can all start a light 15min warm up whilst we wait to connect with Japan.
3. Please always wear all black or navy blue in our classes, and don't forget to bring your belt and bokken.
4. Always train either barefoot, with socks or with tabi shoes.
5. Create a fun, friendly community environment to allow you and all the other students to learn and grow in a safe and comfortable environment. Communication is very important.
NEW STUDENTS
Please note that at the moment, we are NOT accepting students under the age of 18. We don’t currently have the right system in place to provide training to minors. But this will eventually change in the future.
New students should purchase a uniform and a bokken, through the school, within the first few months of enrolling. Please ask us for further details. All KENGIDO students will eventually be expected to have their own equipment and clean uniform at each class.
In the event you don’t have your uniform available for whatever reason, please attend class wearing all black or all navy. All students must at least have their obi (belt) and bokken for each class.
DOJO ETIQUETE
As Kengido is the “Way of the Samurai”, we expect all students to abide by the Bushido code:
Integrity (gi)
Respect (rei)
Courage (yū)
Honor (meiyo)
Compassion (jin)
Honesty and Sincerity (makoto)
Duty and Loyalty (chūgi)