Question 1

Do you run beginners courses ?

Accepted Answer

For some arts we schedule beginners courses throughout the year.

Question 2

Can I watch or try a class before joining ?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  You are welcome to come and watch a class or jump straight in and try a session for free. 
We simply ask that you:
 1. check to make sure that there have not been any changes to the training;
 2. arrive about 10 mins early to make the instructor aware of your interest;
 3. complete a waiver (online) so we comply with insurance record keeping requirements.

Question 3

How can I start training ?

Accepted Answer

If you have decided you definitely want to start training then simply:
​ 1. first check to make sure that there have not been any changes to the training;
 2. arrive about 10 mins early to make the instructor aware of your intent;
 3. complete a waiver (online) so we comply with insurance record keeping requirements;
 4. email kuroyama.budokai@gmail.com for details of how to enrol and pay fees.

Question 4

Do I have to have my own equipment ?

Accepted Answer

We have some equipment for beginners to borrow during class however those taking up regular training will soon require their own equipment.
Instructors can provide guidance on what and where to purchase equipment.

Question 5

What sort of uniform do I need to wear ?

Accepted Answer

Each art has a different official training uniform (keikogi). 
Whilst students who commit to a serious study of the art will be required at some point to have the correct uniform, to minimise initial costs, there can be some allowances in wearing the uniform from one of the other arts.  However this should be discussed with an instructor prior to stepping onto the training floor. 
The official uniform details are below:
Iaido - a black uwagi (jacket) with a white juban (undershirt), a black hakama (special pleated pants) and a obi (belt) of any colour.  The obi is not the same as used in karate etc and is thinner and wider.  Optional items of clothing include knee pads (many students prefer these) and tabi (special footware) becaue of Canberra's colder weather.  A standard uniform (keikogi, hakama and obi) suitable for a beginner is around $100 - $175.  An Iaido uniform can also be worn for Jodo for the first few years.
​Jodo - a blue uwagi (jacket) and a blue hakama (special pleated pants) similar to Kendo and Naginata. Optional items of clothing include tabi (special footware) becaue of Canberra's colder weather.  A standard uniform (keikogi and hakama) suitable for a beginner is around $100 - $130.  A Jodo uniform can also be worn for Iaido for the first few years if an obi (belt) is also purchased.
​
Kyudo - a white shorter sleeve uwagi (jacket) and a black hakama (special pleated pants).  At some point a special glove and tabi will be required.  Females are encouraged to wear a mune ate (chest protector)  A standard uniform (keikogi and hakama) suitable for a beginner is around $100 - $130.  
Naginata - a blue uwagi (jacket) and a blue hakama (special pleated pants) similar to Jodo and Kendo. Optional items of clothing include tabi (special footware) becaue of Canberra's colder weather.  At some point special shin protectors will be recommended.  A standard uniform (keikogi and hakama) suitable for a beginner is around $100 - $130.  
Aikido - a white uwagi (upper garment) and white shitabaki (pants) and a white obi (belt). A hakama (special pleated pants) is generally not worn until yudansha (black belt) level.  A standard uniform suitable for a beginner is around $50 - $100 (not including hakama).

Question 6

Do you have classes for women only ?

Accepted Answer

We currently do not have separate classes for women however several of the arts have female instructors or senior students who are willing to discuss their training experience with prospective students.

Question 7

Do you have childrens classes ?

Accepted Answer

We currently do not take students under the age of 12 years. 
Teenagers between the age of 12 and 16 years can attend classes IF there is a parent/guardian enrolled in the class and present to support learning and basic discipline.
Teenagers over the age of 16 years are able to join classes.

Question 8

Do you train with real swords ?

Accepted Answer

When beginning Iaido, a special type of training sword called an Iaito is used.  Iaito are specially shaped and weighted to enable the drawing and cutting techniques to be controlled and performed in a quick and efficient manner.  Iaito are made from usually a zinc alloy and do not have a sharp cutting edge.  
Some senior practitioners (usually members of the instructor cadre) will use Shinken which are manufactured through a forging process and have a sharp cutting edge.

Question 9

I have my own equipment.  Can I use it ?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  However this is subject to safety inspection by an instructor the first time you bring it.

Question 10

Can you recommend reputable suppliers for equipment ?

Accepted Answer

The Dojo currently has a relationship with a prominent company in Japan, Tozando, with whom we have a loyalty scheme which offers discount on some equipment and many uniform items.
The Dojo also has a long term relationship with a sword manufacturer in Japan with whom we can facilitate the purchase of custom made swords.

Question 11

I have a uniform from studying a different martial art.  Can I wear it ?

Accepted Answer

It will depend upon what the uniform is.  Each art has a different official training uniform however to minimise initial costs, there can be some allowances in wearing the uniform from another other arts. 
However this should be discussed with an instructor prior to stepping onto the training floor.

Question 12

What should I wear if I don't have a uniform ?

Accepted Answer

Until a Keikogi (uniform) is purchased, loose fitting clothes are preferred.  
For Iaido, clothing that covers the knees is strongly recommended.

Question 13

Is bowing to Ancestors, Gods or Deities mandatory ?"

Accepted Answer

Bowing does not have any explicit or implicit religious meaning.  Bowing is simply a sign of mutual respect and/or thankfulness to instructors, training partners, or the venue to what they have given or are about to give.
If you believe that Bowing will conflict with some personal beliefs, please discuss first with a senior instructor so the matter can be resolved without insult to any person.

Question 14

What equipment or weapons will I need for Jodo ?

Accepted Answer

Training requires a 128cm Jo (Japanese white oak staff) and Bokuto (Japanese white oak sword).  
Please note that Jodo equipment has some subtle but important differences from the Japanese white oak Jo and Bokuto (aka Bokken) that is often purchased for other arts (such as Aikido).
We recommend you first discuss any purchase with an instructor.

Question 15

What equipment or weapons will I need for Iaido ?

Accepted Answer

Training requires an Iaito (zinc allow training sword) that is of an appropriate length and weight for your build.
We recommend you first discuss any purchase with an instructor.

Question 16

Do you sell equipment or uniforms ?

Accepted Answer

From time to time the club may make a bulk acquisition of some items to make available for students to purchase but as a general rule we do not keep stock on hand.
We recommend you first discuss any purchase with an instructor.

Question 17

Are there any manuals or instruction books I need to purchase ?

Accepted Answer

The International bodies governing each art produce official texts and it is highly recommended that after some initial training, students should acquire these for reference. 
From time to time the club may make a bulk acquisition of some to then make available for students to purchase.

Question 18

How long will it take to get a Black Belt ?

Accepted Answer

Progress will depend on the individual in terms of commitment of time and skills acquisition. 
Each art has an examination process and requirement for promotion through the grades.

Question 19

Do I have to learn or speak Japanese ?

Accepted Answer

Whilst there is some terminology used (just like any activity, sport or pastime) this can be easily learned through attendance at class. 
There is no requirement to have proficiency in Japanese language.
However the following links may be of assistance:
Aikido terminology (very extensive) with kanji

Question 20

Will Budo training help my fitness ?

Accepted Answer

Any physical activity has some general benefits, and each of the Budo arts will contribute to some manner of conditioning and mobility improvement. 
However most training is focussed on precision and smoothness of techniques and there is limited focus on cardio-vascular stamina.

Question 21

I have some issues with flexibility and/or mobility issues. Can I still train ?

Accepted Answer

There is no expectation of perfect flexibility or mobility - students come to training with varying degrees of both. 
Over time these can and generally will improve.
If you have pre-existing injuries that are affecting the flexibility and mobility, it is important to discuss this first with a medical practitioner.

Question 22

Will Budo training teach me self defence ?

Accepted Answer

Some of the skills that Budo training develops over time, such as awareness, movement, distance, positioning, and timing, can be of benefit for self defence situation.
However if your motivation for training is wanting to learn self defence skills, your investment in time is better directed towards studying a legitimate specific self defence system.

Question 23

Is Budo training useful in MMA ?

Accepted Answer

If your motivation for training is wanting to compete in MMA, your investment in time is better directed towards studying other sport fighting arts.

Question 24

I have purchased a uniform.  Will someone show me how to wear it ?

Accepted Answer

The correct wearing of the uniform is part of the etiquette of Budo. Some aspects of putting it on are confusing at first, some have subtle tricks, and some just take practise to get it just right for your body.
 
If you are not familiar with how to wear the uniform it is preferred that you wait until someone can show you.
 
If you arrive approx 15 minutes before the start of class and ask one of the other students for assistance they will show you.  If you cannot arrive in time then you will be shown during the class.

Question 25

Do you have classes for beginners ?

Accepted Answer

Iaido
We conduct 10 week beginners classes every alternate Term. Please contact us if you are interested.

Jodo
We conduct 10 week beginners classes every alternate Term. Please contact us if you are interested.

Aikido
Currently our Aikido class is on exploring the martial aspects for existing (adult) black belts.

Kyudo
We currently do not have separate classes or introductory courses for beginners.  Beginners are welcome at any time however we suggest you contact us in advance.

Do you run beginners courses ?

Can I watch or try a class before joining ?

How can I start training ?

Do I have to have my own equipment ?

What sort of uniform do I need to wear ?

Do you have classes for women only ?

Do you have childrens classes ?

Do you train with real swords ?

I have my own equipment. Can I use it ?

Can you recommend reputable suppliers for equipment ?

I have a uniform from studying a different martial art. Can I wear it ?