Kendo, meaning "the way of the sword"; is an armed Japanese martial art that is derived from ancient samurai swordsmanship (kenjutsu). Kendo uses bamboo practice swords called shinai and protective armor called bogu in vigorous training to build physical skills, sharpen mental focus, and develop discipline in one’s own character.
We are a student-run and student-focused club. However, our members are a diverse mixture of university students, alumni, university staff, and community members, and we welcome any current or would-be kendo practitioner to join our club or simply visit us for a practice.
We are a tight-knit group of friends, and are always looking for enthusiastic new members to join us (contact kendo@iastate.edu for inquiry).
Kendo Club meets at Forker Building; Room 198, Wednesday from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm and Friday from 6 pm - 8 pm. Beginners are recommended to attend the first hour of the practice during the first few months. Sunday practice is scheduled at Beyer Hall 3430 from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Sunday practice is only opened to senior members (with bogu). University calendared breaks are subject to location and time changes.
Club fee is $35 per semester (usually collected during the second month of each semester). First-time attendees are required to wear a sports suit and shorts. A bamboo sword (shinai) will be provided during the first few weeks. But we would highly recommend the attendees purchase their own shinai and (later, after they decide to advance further) kendo practicing uniform (total around $150).
News & Announcements
February 7, 2026Upcoming Events for Spring Semester
-Detroit kendo tournament Feb 14-15
-Taylor Cup at St. Louis, March 21 with Shinsa at March 22
-Minnesota taikai at May (date TBD)
-Practice matches and joint practices at MN