Where do I start?

[Jacobi4759]

Hi everybody, newbie here, and my first post! I apologise if I'm asking this in the wrong place, but I figured, it doesn't hurt to ask. Anyway. Disclaimer aside!

I am interested in taking up sword fighting, or whatever it's called. Kendo? However, I won't be able to start any classes for a few years, I'm a full time stay at home Dad for my 8 month old daughter, and I work nights. So... I want to start by buying a practice sword for the weight, and practicing basic moves to build up stamina. Can anyone offer suggestions about a cheap practice sword that is weighted correctly? I'm basically asking the opposite of what most people ask LOL.

 

[crimsonfalcon07]

Are you looking for Japanese swordfighting (kendo and iaido), or western? I'd honestly start by finding the class, because the instructor will have ideas about what s/he wants you to buy for the class. I also wouldn't practice basic moves before you've learned anything, because you'll just drill in moves that will likely be incorrectly done, and will then have to be unlearned. Be guided by the instructor, and don't practice anything until you can practice it perfectly. Otherwise your effort will at best be wasted. Good luck to you, and welcome to bladeforums!