Iaido is the art of reacting to a surprise attack by counter attacking with a sword cut.

The iaidoka (practitioner of iaido) wields a sword: not to control the opponent, but to control himself and is mostly preformed solo as a series of Waza. The iaidoka executes various techniques against single or multiple imaginary opponents. Each Waza begins and ends with the sword sheathed. In addition to sword technique, practitioners require imagination and concentration to maintain the feeling of a real fight and to keep the Waza fresh. In order to properly perform the Waza, iaidoka also learn posture and movement, how to grip and swing the sword. Iaido is never practiced in a free-sparring manner.

 Iaidoka practice to prepare for a surprise attack where an immediate and efficient solution to the problem of aggression is necessary. Therefore, the technique is highly refined and unnecessary movement avoided resulting in techniques being simple and direct. Training is aimed at the development of the practioner’s every mental and physical resource. Iaidoka develop the mind towards an ultimately peaceful, harmonious, and active state ready to react and deal with any life situation.

The student will have to repeat ceaselessly every single technique to succeed drawing his sword from standing or sitting positions, while static or in movement.

This is only possible if the usage of the feet ("ashi sabaki"), body ("tai sabaki") and sword ("ken sabaki") are correct and associated to the right state of mind.

Each kata can be broken down into five sequences:

Nukitsuke  cutting while drawing.

Furikaburi  raising the sword to cut.

Kirioroshi  executing the decisive(s) cut(s).

Chiburi     making a movement to shake off the blood from the blade.

Noto        sheathing the sword.

The learning method consists in progressively acquiring the ground techniques, in order to master both the handling of the sword and the unfolding of several groups of kata.

By training regularly for a long time by himself or with the team, the student will especially improve his balance, movement coordination, endurance and concentration. From a more personal point of view, a student will develop self control, confidence and open-mindedness. In fact, group training sessions at the dojo encourage cooperative spirit and sociability.

Iaido is an authentic martial art that proved its martial values in a time of constant battle and warfare.

Notes from 2006 seminar

Click the images below or download high resolution images here: handouts.zip (1.2 MB)