November 26, 2007

SFMAI invites you to come watch Tameshigiri
- sword cutting - demonstrated in class!

Thursday December 6, 2007
8:30pm - 10:00pm


The purpose of tameshigiri, in Toyama Ryu Batto Jutsu, is to test the cutting ability of the sword, gain experience in striking a solid object and improve timing, distance, angle and grip.
The targets used consist of makiwari, tightly rolled straw mats called tatami mats, that have been soaked in water. These offer uniform weight and thickness that best replicate the resistance of human flesh.

Instructor Sang Kim sensei, holds a 4th dan - US Batto Do Federation/Zen Nihon Toyama Ryu Iaido and a 2nd dan with Shizan Kai. Studied with Bob Elder sensei (6th dan kyoshi) and Hataya Mitsuo sensei (9th dan Kaicho of the Zen Nihon Batto Do renmei). He was first introduced to sword at age 12 through kendo. He's been practicing Toyama Ryu and Battodo since 2000. For more information about Kim sensei and the Byakokan dojo go to www.sfmai.org or www.newyorkbattodo.com