University of Pittsburgh

Kendo Dojo

Basic information

The Dojo

The University of Pittsburgh Kendo Dojo was established in the summer of 2002 to provide an opportunity for individuals in the Pittsburgh area to study kendo. Classes are taught by Titus Schleyer, 4-dan in kendo. The dojo is located in Trees Hall at the University of Pittsburgh (directions are available at www.pittsburgh-kendo.com).

Membership

Membership in the University of Pittsburgh Kendo Dojo is open to the faculty, students and staff of the University of Pittsburgh as well as the public at large. There is no strictly defined minimum and maximum age; however, student ages typically range from 6 years to over 50 years old.

Signing up

We are only interested in members who intend to pursue kendo seriously. While it sometimes takes time for a person to decide whether kendo is for them or not, we do not recommend taking up the study of kendo unless you are ready for very strenuous exercise, a high degree of mental and physical discipline, and a significant time commitment. You are required to observe at least three practices before you actually start. If you have prior experience with kendo, you can sign up immediately. The dojo admits students on a rolling basis, so there is no waiting period for starting after you have fulfilled the observation requirement.

Equipment

Initially, comfortable workout clothes are sufficient to participate in the practice. After some time, you will need a uniform consisting of a gi and a hakama, which costs about $80. The dojo provides shinai (bamboo practice swords), bokuto (wooden training swords) and bogu (set of armor) for beginners only. Once you begin wearing bogu, you are required to purchase your own shinai and bokuto. After some time, you will also have to purchase your own set of armor.

Fees

Classes are currently open to anyone. There are two types of fees. The first type is the fee for the Kendo Dojo itself and is currently as follows:

Checks should be made out to "UPT". Please write “Dojo dues" in the memo field.

The second fee is the annual membership fee for the regional kendo federation and the All United States Kendo Federation. This fee allows the student to attend AUSKF-sponsored tournaments, seminars and promotion tests. It also provides financial support for visits by high-ranking guest teachers at the University of Pittsburgh Kendo Dojo. This fee is currently as follows:

Checks should be made out to "UPT". Please write “AUSKF dues" in the memo field.

Both registration fees are due at your first practice. Please use the attached registration form and include separate checks for the dojo and the AUSKF fee. Subsequently, the dojo fee is collected every six months, and the AUSKF fee in January/February of each year.

If you have additional questions, or would like to schedule a visit to the dojo, please contact Titus Schleyer at titus@pitt.edu or 412-648-8886.