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About
Shozankan Kendo Club, based in Birmingham, UK, is a warm and welcoming Kendo club that caters to both beginners and experienced members. With over 20 years of history, it has become the home of traditional Kendo in Birmingham. The club prides itself on its strong ties with elite sensei in Japan and boasts instructors and members who are current and former British National Team players.
The training sessions at Shozankan Kendo Club take place every Sunday from 1-3PM at the Sports Hall, Harborne Academy, Harborne Road, B15 3JL. The club welcomes all individuals, regardless of their level of experience or expertise. The monthly membership fee is 25, and the first session is free for newcomers.
Kendo, the martial art practised at Shozankan Kendo Club, has a deep-rooted concept of disciplining the human character through the application of the principles of the sword, known as the Katana. The purpose of practising Kendo is to mould both the mind and body, cultivating a vigorous spirit. Through correct and rigid training, members strive for improvement in the art of Kendo while also holding human courtesy and honour in high esteem. The aim is to promote peace, prosperity, and contribute to the development of culture.
The mindset of Kendo, as emphasised at Shozankan, highlights the significance of the shinai, which is the bamboo sword used in the practise. The correct way of handling the shinai is taught in accordance with the principles of the sword. Kendo is not just directed at one's opponent but also at oneself, making it a way to cultivate one's mind, spirit, and technique. Instruction focuses on encouraging the unification of mind, body, and shinai through training in this discipline.
Etiquette, known as reiho, is highly valued in Kendo. Emphasis is placed on respect for partners and nurturing individuals with a dignified and humane character. Even in competitive matches, upholding etiquette is of utmost importance at Shozankan Kendo Club. Instruction aims to develop a modest attitude towards life and realise the ideal of achieving mutual understanding and betterment of humanity through Kendo.
Shozankan Kendo Club encourages lifelong practise and the development of character. Students are encouraged to prioritise safety and health while dedicating themselves to personal growth throughout their lives. Kendo is seen as a “way of life” that can be learned and passed on through the generations, and the club's objective is to inspire practitioners to continually discover and improve themselves.