Welcome to Minnehaha Kendo Dojo
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Enrollment Periods For New Students
There are four periods throughout the year in which we accept new beginners and those are the first two Thursday practices and first two Saturday practices in January, April,
July, and October. By grouping new beginners together in these 2 week periods of each quarter we hope to make it an easier and better experience for people to start
together learning the same basics at the same time. We highly recommend watching a practice before starting.
Arrive at least 15 mins before the start of practice!
What should you bring on your first day?
- $30 to purchase your shinai (bamboo sword)
- $35 for the first month dues
- Wear gym shorts and a t-shirt or similarly appropriate athletic clothing
- Fill out this form
About Us
Minnehaha Kendo Dojo was started in 1995 by Bob Cochran Sensei. We are a part of the Midwest Kendo federation and practice traditional Japanese kendo. We often attend tournaments and seminars around the midwest and will on occasion bring in guest instructors.
About Kendo
Kendo is the Japanese martial art of swordsmanship using bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bogu). At Minnehaha Kendo Dojo, we focus on building strong fundamentals for which all advanced techniques rest on and for which advancement in rank and success in tournaments are essential. We place an emphasis on training hard, training correctly, and having fun all while following traditional Japanese etiquette.
Kendo, like all martial arts, is a great way to build character, discipline, and confidence.
Minnehaha Instructors
Travis
Stronach
Kendo 6th dan
Robert
Cochran
Kendo 6th dan
Jon
Berry
Kendo 5th dan
Jodo 2nd dan
Join Us
New Students
We are always accepting new members and encourage newcomers to watch a practice and ask questions afterwards before they participate. We accept all students ages 8 and up. Take a look through our beginner’s guide for a few basics in kendo ettiguette and what you can expect as you begin your kendo journey.
Visiting the Twin Cities?
Our dojo is always open to kendoka visiting from out of town. We look forward to your visit, please let us know when to expect you and any other questions you have.
Practice Schedule
Center for Blade Arts
4744 Chicago Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Tuesday: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Thursday (Beginners focused): 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Saturday (Includes a beginners section): 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Monthly Membership Dues: $35
