Michael Shane sensei

Michael Shane

Chief Instructor
Godan, Zen Nihon Toyama Ryu Iaido Renmei
Sandan, International Battodo Federation
Sandan, Kurikara Ryu Heiho
Sandan, US Federation of Battodo

Michael Shane has been studying Japanese martial arts since 2013, and joined Zentokan Dojo in its first year. He travels to Japan regularly for training and also studies Kurikara Ryu Heiho and tanren with John Maki Evans Sensei of the Fudokan Dojo in London.

An active member of the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai and the New York Token Kai, Michael also studies the history and preservation of nihonto (traditionally-made Japanese swords).

In his practice and teaching Michael emphasizes a holistic approach to swordsmanship based on the systematic cultivation of shinshin renma (心身錬磨), a mental and physical state of equanimity, adaptability, and responsiveness.

A refined sensibility discerns beneath appearances, understands the significance of details, perceives the relationships between things, and senses underlying patterns and cycles. Without this refinement, progress is uncertain, and any power gained will prove self-destructive. Progress in training does not lie in acquiring technical skills alone nor in the acquisition of magical powers but in uncovering hidden aspects of natural being. One is then able to draw on these qualities, powers, and rhythms in training. Refining sensibility involves not only cultivating the mind and the senses but also attuning the body as an intuitive receiver. This complete cultivation is termed shinshin renma.
— Kurikara: The Sword and the Serpent, p. 83

Michael offers students a historically authentic and martially sound approach to the sword based on comprehensive study of Japanese budo.

He also holds the rank of nidan in Aikido.

  • 2024 Zen Nihon Toyama Ryu Iaido Renmei Taikai (Tokyo, Japan)
    Silver Medal, Yondan and Above Kata

    2024 International Battodo Federation Taikai (London, UK)
    Silver Medal, Team Tameshigiri

    2023 International Battodo Federation Taikai (Yokohama, Japan)
    Silver Medal, Sandan/Yondan Tameshigiri

    2023 US Federation of Battodo Tri-State Taikai (New Jersey, USA)
    Gold Medal, Kumitachi

    2022 International Battodo Federation Taikai (Yokohama, Japan)
    Bronze Medal, Sandan/Yondan Tameshigiri

    2019 US Federation of Battodo Tri-State Taikai (New Jersey, USA)
    Silver Medal, Shodan/Nidan Kata

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