Japanese Sword Training for Adults

Structured, calm and progressive training in Battōdō for adults. Complete beginners welcome. No experience necessary.

Thinking about learning Japanese swordsmanship?

Our next introductory course is currently being planned. Register your interest now and we'll let you know as soon as new dates are released.

Register Your Interest

What is Battodo?

Battodo is a traditional Japanese martial art centred on the disciplined use of the sword. Training emphasises precise movement, focus, posture, and calm awareness through structured kata, cutting practice, and foundational conditioning.

At Nintai Kai, Battodo is taught as a long-term practice - developing balance, resilience, and clarity of mind alongside physical skill.

Learn more about Battodo

Why Choose Nintai Kai?

✓ A clear pathway from complete beginner to confident practitioner.

✓ Traditional Japanese Battōdō taught through kata, paired practice and supervised tameshigiri.

✓ Small classes with individual coaching in a supportive adult learning environment.

Your path in battodo

Step 1 – Introductory Course
Learn the fundamentals of Japanese swordsmanship through four structured sessions.

Step 2 – Continuation Course
Build confidence, control and consistency while developing core Battōdō skills.

Step 3 – Weekly Training
Join regular classes and continue your development through kata, paired practice and supervised tameshigiri.

How training works at Nintai Kai

Training is structured, progressive, and suited to adult beginners.

Sessions typically include:

- Fundamental movement and cutting practice.
- Solo kata forms
- Paired drills
- Conditioning and mobility work

You will train at your own pace in a calm, focused environment.

Training is accessible to complete beginners, but technically demanding. Through structured practice, students develop precision, control, effective cutting mechanics and composure under pressure. Progress comes through consistent training - not athletic ability or previous martial arts experience.

Meet Your Instructor

Training at Nintai Kai is led by Steve Castle-Mackie, an experienced practitioner and instructor of Japanese swordsmanship (Battōdō).

With decades of martial arts experience, Steve combines traditional Japanese sword training with a structured, progressive approach to adult learning. His teaching draws on continued study through seminars, international competition and training in Japan, while remaining firmly focused on helping students develop strong fundamentals and lasting skills.

Every class places an emphasis on safety, technical precision and steady progression, creating an environment where complete beginners and experienced practitioners alike can develop confidence, physical capability and effective swordsmanship over time.

Ready to Get Started?

Most new students begin with our introductory course. No experience needed, and training is structured and progressive.

Book an introductory course.

“I started later in life after years of interest in Japanese swords. Two years in, I’ve gained far more than technical skill - body conditioning, mental focus, and a real appreciation for the tradition.”
- David H.

“As a woman I was nervous about starting, but everyone has been welcoming and supportive. Training has brought far more to our lives than I expected.”
- Joanne W.

Classes

Training at Nintai Kai is structured, progressive, and designed for adults of all ages and experience levels. Classes focus on correct movement, posture, and coordination, with an emphasis on safety, repetition, and steady improvement rather than speed or athleticism.

Regular weekly classes form the core of training, supported by structured public courses that provide a clear entry point and opportunities to deepen practice.

Kumitachi

Class Wide Horse Kirioroshi

How our classes work

All classes are led by the lead instructor, ensuring consistency of teaching and progression across the curriculum. Assistant instructors support students during sessions, offering individual guidance and helping maintain a safe, focused training environment.

Training emphasises:

correct posture and movement
controlled, efficient technique
gradual progression over time
respect for individual ability and pace

No prior martial arts experience is required to begin.

A typical class

While the exact emphasis may vary, a regular class generally follows this structure:

Mobility and warm-up
Tanren (conditioning and internal training)
Kihon (fundamental sword movements and mechanics)
Kata (solo forms)
Kumitachi (controlled partner work where appropriate)
Cool-down and review

Classes are structured and calm, with time for questions and individual correction throughout.

Regular weekly classes

Weekly evening classes provide the main pathway for ongoing training. These sessions are suitable for adults of all experience levels, including complete beginners.

Beginners are introduced carefully to the fundamentals and supported as they integrate into regular training. Progression is steady and based on quality of movement and understanding rather than speed or force.

For most students, regular weekly classes form the foundation of long-term practice.

Which option is right for me?

I'm completely new → We recommend starting with the Introductory Course. If course dates aren't suitable, contact us about joining a regular class.
I’ve completed the Introductory Course → Continuation Course and weekly classes
I want steady, long-term training → Regular weekly classes
I want to deepen specific areas → Courses alongside weekly training

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to guide you.

Join Us

Next steps

If you’re interested in training or unsure where to begin, please get in touch and we’ll help you decide the most suitable option.

Thinking of joining?
Most new students begin with the Introductory Course, while experienced practitioners usually join regular classes. If you’re unsure, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise.

Schedule

Regular Training

Training takes place on several evenings each week, with sessions structured to suit different levels of experience. In addition to regular classes, we also run introductory courses during the year, monthly tameshigiri sessions, and grading opportunities where appropriate.

Most students start with introductory and continuation courses of four sessions each before commencing regular weekly training and gradually build their practice at a steady, sustainable pace.

Monday - 7-9pm - All grades training - Kingsmere Community Centre, Bicester

Tuesday - 7-9pm - Senior grade training - Arncott Village Hall, Upper Arncott

Wednesday - 7-9pm - All grades training - Windmill Community Centre, Deddington

Kingsmere Community Centre

Whitelands Way
Bicester
Oxfordshire
OX26 1EG Kingsmere Community Centre

Arncott Village Hall

Village hall

Murcott Road
Upper Arncott
Bicester
Oxfordshire
OX25 1QH

Arncott Village Hall

Windmill Community Centre

Hempton Road
Deddington
Banbury
Oxfordshire
OX15 0QH

Windmill Community Centre, Deddington

Instructors

All training at Nintai Kai is guided by a lead instructor and supported by dedicated assistant instructors, providing clear structure and personal attention. This approach helps create a safe, steady learning environment where students can progress at their own pace.

Steve Castle-Mackie - Lead Instructor

Steve Castle-Mackie is the founder and lead instructor of Nintai Kai. He has trained for many years in Japanese sword arts and practises Battōdō within the Nakamura Ryū and Kurikara Heiho Ryū traditions. His training has been undertaken primarily under John Evans Sensei (7th Dan) of Fudokan London, who received direct instruction from Nakamura Taizaburō Sensei, founder of Nakamura Ryū Battōdō. In addition, Steve has broadened his experience through TaiKai events, seminars, and training visits to Japan. He instructs all regular classes at Nintai Kai, ensuring consistency of teaching, technical clarity, and steady progression for students. His approach emphasises correct fundamentals, safe training, and long-term development, particularly for those starting later in life or returning to physical practice after time away.

Marko Assistant Instructor

Charlie Assistant Instructor

Marko Zupancic - Assistant Instructor

Marko began training in martial arts as a teenager in Slovenia, starting with karate before moving into Japanese jujutsu, which he pursued through his university years. Alongside this, he trained in Tai Ji Quan (Yang and Chen styles), developing an interest in efficient movement and coordination. After relocating to the UK, he continued his jujutsu practice and later spent almost a decade training in Krav Maga, where he also served as an assistant instructor. Marko began training in Battōdō at Nintai Kai in 2022 and supports classes as an assistant instructor, contributing a practical, methodical approach to paired work, application, and progressive skill development.

Charlie Upton - Assistant Instructor

Charlie began training in martial arts in the early 1980s, with experience in full-contact karate and boxing before moving into Seven Star Praying Mantis kung fu, which he trained in and taught for over 25 years. His wider practice has included aikidō, tai chi, and qigong, alongside formal study in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. He is also a qualified Archery GB coach. Charlie began training in Battōdō at Nintai Kai when the dojo opened in 2022 and supports classes as an assistant instructor, bringing a depth of experience in body conditioning, structure, and internal practice, with a calm and attentive approach to training.

Gallery

Experience Training at Nintai Kai

Every photograph tells part of the journey at Nintai Kai – from the first lesson through to advanced cutting practice, seminars and demonstrations. Browse the gallery below to see how students develop their skills in a safe, supportive and traditional training environment.

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Join Us

Training at Nintai Kai follows a clear, supportive pathway into traditional Japanese sword practice. Our approach is structured, progressive, and suitable for adults of all backgrounds. No prior experience is required.

How to Start

Introductory Course (4 sessions)
All new students begin with a four-session introductory course. This covers posture, grip, footwork, basic cuts, dojo etiquette, and preparatory tanren exercises using wooden swords.

Continuation Course
Students who wish to progress move on to a continuation course, refining core techniques, introducing paired work, conditioning practices, and supervised use of an iaitō (training sword).

Regular Classes
After completing the courses, students may join regular weekly training, developing skill steadily through kihon, kata, and paired practice at an individual pace.

Who It’s For

Our training is well suited to adults starting later in life, returning to martial arts, or seeking disciplined, mindful physical practice. Training is adults-only, inclusive, and adaptable to individual needs.

Next Steps

To register your interest or find out when the next introductory course is running, please get in touch using the form below.

Training is progressive and supportive, with time and space to learn at your own pace.

Enquiries and training administration are handled in line with our Privacy Policy.

Safeguarding

Nintai Kai Martial Arts is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive training environment for all participants. We take our safeguarding responsibilities seriously and aim to ensure that training is conducted in a way that promotes wellbeing, trust, and appropriate conduct at all times.

Scope

Nintai Kai Martial Arts is an adult-only club. Training is open to adults aged 18 and over.
We do not currently provide classes for children.

Safeguarding arrangements are proportionate to the nature of our activities and the adults who train with us.

Safeguarding responsibility

The Safeguarding Lead for Nintai Kai Martial Arts is:

Name: Steve Castle-Mackie
Role: Lead Instructor & Safeguarding Lead
Contact: bicesterbattodo@aol.com

The Safeguarding Lead is responsible for overseeing safeguarding arrangements and responding appropriately to any concerns raised.

As the Designated Safeguarding Lead, Steve Castle-Mackie, is the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns.

Our approach

We aim to maintain a training environment that is:

respectful and inclusive
free from harassment, bullying, or discrimination
attentive to safety, consent, and appropriate conduct

All instructors and assistants are expected to act in a professional manner and to support safe, responsible training.

Raising a concern

If you have a safeguarding concern relating to training at Nintai Kai Martial Arts, you are encouraged to raise it as soon as possible.

Concerns can be raised:

directly with the Safeguarding Lead, or
in writing using the contact details above

All concerns will be treated seriously and handled sensitively. Where appropriate, concerns may be referred to external bodies in line with safeguarding guidance.

Further information

Nintai Kai Martial Arts maintains safeguarding policies and procedures appropriate to the club and its activities. These are available on request.

BMABA is Safeguarding Governing Body (safeguarding@bmaba.org.uk / 01798 306546) for Nintai Kai Martial Arts

Safeguarding policies are reviewed periodically and updated as required.

Terms & Privacy

Last updated: January 2026

Nintai Kai respects your privacy and is committed to handling personal data responsibly and transparently. Nintai Kai operates as an adult-only martial arts club (18+).

Who We Are

Data Controller: Steve Castle-Mackie (Lead Instructor, Nintai Kai)
📧 bicesterbattodo@aol.com
📞 07944 165511

Nintai Kai is registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

What Data We Collect

We collect limited personal data when you contact us or register interest, such as your name and contact details. We do not knowingly collect data relating to children.

How We Use Your Data

Your data is used only to:

Respond to enquiries
Provide information about training, courses, and events
Manage membership, insurance, and safeguarding obligations

We do not sell personal data or use it for unsolicited marketing.

Lawful Basis

We process data under UK GDPR based on consent, contractual necessity, legal obligation, legitimate interests, and vital interests (health and safety).

Data Sharing & Retention

Data is shared only where necessary (e.g. BMABA, insurers, emergency services).
Contact data is retained while active and for up to 18 months after leaving. Other data is retained only where legally required.

Your Rights

You have the right to access, correct, delete, restrict, or object to the processing of your data, and to withdraw consent at any time. Requests can be made via email and will be responded to within one month.

Website Use

Website content is provided for general information only. All content remains the property of Nintai Kai. Unlawful or abusive use of the website is prohibited.

Complaints

If you have concerns about data use, please contact us first. You also have the right to complain to the ICO.

Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales.

Contact

If you’re curious about training at Nintai Kai or unsure where to begin, you’re very welcome to get in touch. Use the form below to ask about classes, schedules, or what to expect when starting. No prior experience is required, and all enquiries are handled personally.

If you prefer email you can also contact us at Infor@NintaiKai.co.uk

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24–48 hours.

Contact Form

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Phone

Personal information submitted through this form is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Courses

Introductory Course (4 sessions)

Aim of the course
The Introductory Course is designed to introduce participants to Japanese sword practice in a structured and supportive way. It provides a clear starting point for those new to battodo or Japanese martial arts.

Course content
Over four weekly sessions, participants will be introduced to:

use of the bokken (wooden sword)
correct grip, stance, and basic footwork
basic thrusting and cutting actions
controlled paired exercises with another student
introductory breathing exercises connecting sword, body, and internal focus

As the course progresses, training may develop into:

sheathing the sword
introduction to the first kata (dependent on overall class progression and performance)

Each session includes a warm-up and stretching, followed by fundamentals (kihon) interspersed with basic tanren exercises (often likened to qi-gong–type practices). Partner work, sheathing, and kata are typically introduced in the later sessions as appropriate.

The practice is not about “sword fighting” but about developing an integrated approach to body, mind, and sword.

Continuation Course (4 sessions)

Aim of the course
The Continuation Course builds upon the techniques and understanding developed during the Introductory Course, allowing students to refine fundamentals and deepen their practice.

Course content
Across four weekly sessions, the course focuses on:

refinement of techniques and kata introduced previously
further dojo etiquette and training structure
deeper exploration of tanren

Tanren
The word tanren means “forging” and refers to the application of pressure and discipline to cultivate strength, flexibility, and internal connection. To an outside observer, tanren may resemble yoga, qi-gong, or similar practices.

During the course, students are introduced to the basic tanren preparatory sequence, which underpins Kurikara Ryū Heiho sword practice.

Additional elements include:

Uchikomi – striking targets to develop tenouchi (grip) and educate the body to deal with recoil and impact
Tanrenbō – use of a heavy wooden club to perform slow tanren movements, emphasising breathing and efficient body use
Iaitō – opportunity to try kata or combinations using a training sword

This course supports students in developing confidence, coordination, and a deeper understanding of how the body works with the sword.

What Our Students Say

“I was anxious about starting due to health conditions affecting my energy levels and joints, but the course was very accommodating. I was able to modify exercises when needed and was pleased to complete the course. My confidence has increased, and I’m hoping to try the continuation course in the future.”
— Course participant (1–3 months’ experience)

“Well-paced sessions with clear explanations and demonstrations, along with repeated practice of skills. We enjoyed the course and it held our interest throughout the lessons.”
— W & L Seldon, course participants

About Battodo

Battōdō is a traditional Japanese sword art that brings together precise movement, calm focus, and steady physical practice. Rooted in classical swordsmanship, it trains practitioners to draw, cut, and return the sword in a single, controlled action.

More than a martial discipline, battōdō offers a sustainable path of development, supporting strength, coordination, and clarity at any stage of life.

Kihon & Kata

Kihon - the fundamentals - form the backbone of training and are especially important for those returning to physical practice or starting later in life. Through structured basics such as posture, footwork, and controlled cutting actions, students build confidence, stability, and efficient movement.

These fundamentals are developed through kata, structured solo and paired forms that encourage balance, timing, and awareness. Training progresses gradually, allowing practitioners to refine technique at a sustainable pace while developing coordination and control.

Tanren

Tanren means “forging” and focuses on conditioning the body in a way that supports longevity rather than exhaustion. Using slow, deliberate movements, tanren improves posture, breathing, joint stability, and internal strength without placing unnecessary strain on the body.

Rooted in the Kurikara Ryū Heihō tradition, tanren is particularly well suited to mid-life practitioners, helping rebuild resilience, improve mobility, and cultivate calm focus alongside physical strength.

Tameshigiri

Tameshigiri, or test cutting, allows students to apply their training in a clear and tangible way. Cutting soaked tatami mats provides immediate feedback on alignment, grip, and body coordination, without relying on brute force.

For many practitioners, tameshigiri is deeply satisfying, not as a display of strength, but as confirmation that correct technique and calm focus produce effective results. It reinforces precision, confidence, and trust in one’s training.

Battōdō at Nintai Kai is well suited to those starting later in life. Training focuses on controlled movement, good posture, and steady progression rather than speed or athleticism, and no prior experience is required: only patience, curiosity, and regular practice.

What happens in class?

Typical class content