PROGRAMS: BATTODO
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Batto is a general term for the art of quickly drawing and striking with the sword. Modern Battodo, as promulgated by the Zen Nihon Battodo Renmei, consists of standardized kata instructing defense against attacks by one or more opponents approaching from various directions. These forms impart basic footwork and practical sword techniques that would have been useful in battlefield situations.
Tameshigiri, the practice of test cutting, is also an important practice in Battodo. The purpose of tameshigiri is to test the cutting ability of the sword, to gain experience in actually striking a solid object, and to improve timing, distance, angle and grip in a manner that is difficult to do through practice of forms alone. The targets used are tightly rolled straw mats called tatami omote that have been soaked in water. Kata teaches correct footwork and body movement, but it is only by cutting an actual target that it may be seen if proper cutting technique is being used.
Ultimately, however, strength, speed and technique alone are not enough. The correct swing technique and blade angle (hasuji) must combine with proper cutting distance (kirima) to make a successful cut. But to perform a perfect cut, the mind, body and spirit must fuse at the very instant of cutting. This is the training objective of Battodo.
Shinjinkai is home to a group studying Battodo under the direction of the Zen Nihon Battodo Renmei (ZNBR); our group is guided by Tony Alvarez Sensei of the Senpokan Dojo in Costa Mesa, California. Persons practicing Battodo at Shinjinkai are registered with ZNBR.
Battodo training takes place at Shinjinkai H.Q. in Chicago on Saturday afternoons (4:30pm-6:00pm). Battodo training at Shinjinkai is done in conjunction with Mugai Ryu Iaihyodo, and so both groups meet at the same time on Saturday. You may therefore practice Battodo as a Mugai Ryu member, or you may enroll to practice Battodo alone. Tameshigiri sessions are scheduled regularly for members.
Tony Alvarez Sensei, performing Tameshigiri during a seminar at Shinjinkai H.Q.
