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Step 1
Devote as much time as you can to your training. Part of the purpose of training in Kendo, as stated by Japan's Kendo Federation, is "to mold the mind and body" and "to cultivate a vigorous spirit." True instructors are role models in all aspects of their lives, not just their skills in Kendo.
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Step 2
Stick with a dojo affiliated with your regional Kendo federation. There are many state and regional chapters of the All United States Kendo Federation, but not every dojo is recognized, or wishes to be recognized officially. But if you want to become an instructor, it's best to attain rank through the proper channels.
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Step 3
Keep testing your skills to attain a higher ranking. The system known as "kyu" is for ranking beginners or younger students. Once a student reaches all levels of "kyu," she progresses through the 9 levels of "dan." These ranks are referred to as first dan, second dan and so on. To reach higher ranks, you must display your skills before a committee of members recognized by your country's Kendo Federation.
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Step 4
Once you reach fourth dan or higher, you should be qualified to begin training other students. You may be awarded a "shogo," or title that indicates your expertise and knowledge of Kendo. The three shogo are "renshi," "kyoshi" and "hanshi," with hanshi being the highest possible degree of perfection in "the way of the sword." Now you may decide to teach at the dojo you learned at, or to begin your own school.
