SHINKENDO OF Huntsville – Madison
JAPANESE SWORDSMANSHIP
Shinkendo (真剣道) is a comprehensive system of Japanese swordsmanship founded by master swordsman Toshishiro Obata. Shinkendo balances fluid movement with accuracy, power, and speed to develop practical skills with the sword. Shinkendo offers a well-rounded and cohesive curriculum with training divided into five separate areas of practice
Suburi (素振り) – sword swinging and body movement exercises
Battoho (抜刀法) – sword drawing methods
Tanrengata (鍛錬型) – solo forms
Tachiuchi (太刀打ち) – partnered training
Tameshigiri (試し切り) – test cutting with a live blade
Toyama Ryu Battodo (戸山流抜刀道), a system of swordsmanship once used by the Japanese military, is also taught as an adjunct to the Shinkendo curriculum.
The practice of Shinkendo requires rigorous physical training, depth of coordination, and intense focus. But perhaps the most important aspect of Shinkendo training is attaining an understanding of the warrior spirit (bushi damashi), which is as relevant today as it was in the past.
The Huntsville-Madison class is a satellite program of the Birmingham dojo. It will be taught by Kevin Swanner. Classes will be held at the Quiet Storm dojo, as well provide opportunities for joint training sessions with Sensei Michael Philpott at the Birmingham dojo.
The Birmingham Shinkendo shibu (branch) was one of the earliest branch schools authorized by Toshishiro Obata. Started by Hanshi Paul Couch and Shihan Yumiko Matsuoka in 1988, it remains the oldest Shinkendo branch in the Southeastern United States. We strive to maintain a group of highly dedicated students and instructors.
For more information on Toyama Ryu Battodo please visit the International Toyama Ryu Federation’s website.
For more information about Shinkendo and Toshishiro Obata, please visit the International Shinkendo Federation’s website.
Instructor Kevin Swanner
Goho Shinkendo (Japanese Sword student rank)
Shidoin Shinkendo (Japanese Sword instructor rank)
- Tuesdays 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- 30 days free for new students
- No Contracts
- Flat Fee of $50 monthly
- Family discounts available
- We do not offer children’s classes; the minimum age is 14 years old. Slightly younger students may be considered after a meet and greet with the parents.