Attention
Leadership
Creativity
Control
What is iaido?
iaido (居 合 道) is the martial art of fast drawing of the famous Japanese long sword, the katana. The practice is comprised of kata, or series of predetermined movements, designed to respond to a particular attack from an opponent called iaidoka. Most Iaido katas are designed to allow you to draw your sword, parry an incoming blow and counterattack your opponent, all in one movement. During the training, both the iaito, a cordless steel sword, and the bokken, a wooden sword, used mainly during the execution of kenjutsu techniques, are used. Iaido’s katas are performed alone, under the careful supervision of the teacher who provides the student with all the elements for good practice. Kenjutsu (剣 術), which is an integral part of the school curriculum, consists instead in the execution of two-person fighting techniques.
What Is For?
The practice of iaido is open to anyone, improves arm and leg strength, and provides a good cardiovascular workout. It helps in the development of a calm and stable behavior and, through attention to detail and the continuous refinement of movements, to create orderly, precise, and original thought patterns. The execution of the techniques is calm and concentrated since the most important feature of Iaido is the development of Zanshin, a state of awareness and relaxed alertness. The greatest challenge required of students is the extraordinary attention to detail that characterizes this martial art. Great importance is given to mental concentration to recreate the feeling of a real encounter. This must be done by keeping a calm spirit, which is not troubled by external distractions or the voice of one’s ego. Constant practice allows one to move with concentration, determination, and precision and helps to improve skills in daily and working life. Through the practice of Iaido, we train ourselves to always be aware.
