Blade runners Battodo-style

Teacher and martial arts writer John Evans demonstrates the art of Battodo

Japanese swordsmanship is perhaps not a skill naturally associated with the people of Hackney, but the borough is home to a rare Battodo school.

The martial art, taught by John Evans of Battodo Fudokan London, may be obscure, but it has proven popular locally since it was first offered in 2010.

Encouraging coordination, composure and attentiveness, the sport aims to bring competitors as close to a “life and death” situation as possible without actually putting them in harm’s way, says Mr Evans.

Trainees practice classical sheathings and cutting techniques using sticks or blunted swords.

The teacher and martial arts writer believes Battodo swordsmanship attracts participants seeking an out-of-the-ordinary, stimulating experience which offers a thrill, danger and the opportunity for “extreme concentration”.

Mr Evans said: “Spontaneity and creative energy are important indicators of correct training in this art and, perhaps for this reason, my student base includes many of Hackney’s creative artists and entrepreneurs.”

Student Magdalena Lemanczyk, a tea merchant who attends up to four classes per week, originally sought to participate in the sport to improve her calligraphy and to discipline her mind.

“Battodo is a very deep and beautiful journey,” she said. “The focus and strength given by training the sword helps to achieve life goals fast.”

Umut Gunduz is an experienced martial artist new to Battodo until he started attending Evans’ classes over two years ago. He was drawn to the sport because of his interest in swords, but has found the practice helpful in the rest of his life also.

The filmmaker and sound designer said: “In everyday life we get blockages and distortion that are born from fear and reaction to the circumstances we find ourselves in. These can hold someone back from reaching their full potential and cause illness both physically and mentally.”

He said the sport helped “address those issues, opening a channel of dialogue between your body and mind through practical and effective methods and techniques so one can begin to work through obstacles. “Battodo is simple, direct and effective in its entirety.”

For more information go to Battodo Fudokan or contact John Evans on 020 8533 5553.