Genbu-Kai Karate

SHITO-RYU KARATE-DO GENBU-KAI OF MICHIGAN

Specializing in the art of Shito-Ryu Karate-Do, Self Defense, Okinawa Kobudo and Batto-Do

  Batto-Do is the art of drawing and cutting with the sword. Batto stems from the period of the samurai.  When practicing cutting we use a live blade (sharp sword).  We roll up mats made of straw and soak them in water for a day or so. We then use them as targets.  It is said that the soaked mats resemble the resistance of the human body when cutting through them.

When cutting these targets, there are different techniques, precise angles and patterns that the practitioner is trying to achieve and execute.  Over the past 10 years, Batto competition has become very popular.  Competition consists of a variety of kata (forms) and cutting.  When practicing Batto in class, we use a wooden sword called a bokken. the practioner will not start cutting until a certain level of skill has been acheived.  

By practicing Batto, it improves posture, timing and accuracy. It also increases speed, strength and most of all, concentration.