There's Kendo at UH? What is it?? Kendo, meaning "Way of the Sword", is a modern Japanese martial art of sword-fighting based on traditional Japanese swordsmanship, or Kenjutsu. For more information click here.

Then what is Cougar Kendo? Cougar Kendo was founded in fall 2008. While it is new to the collegiate kendo clubs in the US, it has become part of a 40+ year old kendo tradition in Houston via its affiliation with the Houston Budokan, which is part of a 700+ year old kendo tradition via its affilation with the Chiba Dojo in Japan.
Cougar Kendo is a recognized student organization that is part of the Sports Club Program. It is comprised of current students of the university. However, the club cannot function without its continuous support from the UH Alumni and sempai of the Houston Budokan.

Swordfighting? Isn't that dangerous? When you get into armor, you may receive a few bruises. Other than that, nothing. Kendo probably has a lower rate of injury than most martial arts.

Why join? Kendo is more than just a sport. Not only is it excellent for one's health and fitness. It may cultivate the mind. Also Kendo forges strong friendships between dojo mates.

Is Kendo practical? Very. Ask Sensei to demonstrate for you.

Is Kendo hard? Yes. 99.9% of those who join Kendo end up quitting. Surprisingly this is not so at Cougar Kendo.

How do I get started? We recommend that you come to watch a practice first before joining. To join, you will need to sign a waiver and pay club dues. club dues are $60 for new members (includes a shinai, a bamboo sword) and $30/semester for returning members.

What about equipment other than the shinai? At the end of your first semester, you will be asked to purchase a hakama & keikogi (kendo uniform). The club will bulk order uniforms for $70 a set.
You will get into bogu (armor) when sensei decides you are ready. The club will try to provide you with a set. If the club does not have any available, then you will be asked to purchase your own set or aid in fundraising for the club to purchase more.

I'm going to join. What can I do before I start practice? Get fit. Read and watch Kendo. Visit the links and resources pages of this website. There is no beginners class - you are basically thrown into a regular Kendo practice. It is helpful to learn some basics of Kendo before starting practice.