by Farkas BalintLast Saturday, together with Alexandra Bálint, we took part in a Tameshigiri event organised by Shinbukan Budapest, representing Kiryoku Budapest. The event began with a lecture and discussion led by Gábor Habermayer, focusing on the dynamics of cutting, the historical background of swords and test cutting, as well as many fascinating insights.
Following the introduction, we held a detailed briefing on how to conduct the Tameshigiri practice safely. We clarified exactly where each participant should stand, how the rotation would work, and other key procedural details. Personally, I always appreciate when the excitement of cutting practice doesn’t overshadow the importance of careful planning and organisation.
During the cutting session, I used my own shinken, which is slightly shorter than my iaitō – and certainly shorter than a bokken – so the distancing felt unfamiliar at first. Fortunately, I was able to adjust quickly. In Iaido or Jodo, the target is usually of a different “type”, and we don’t necessarily have the mental impression that we’re meant to cut through something – even though the act of cutting itself doesn’t require much force physically. We each cut through three or four omote rolls, which offered plenty of valuable experience and new insights.
Many thanks to the organisers for the opportunity and the excellent coordination!
