Iaido
(ee-eye-doe) is a Japanese martial art
that studies the drawing, cutting, and sheathing of the katana (live blade).
Iaido is a formal and non-fighting art that was created to preserve the
sword skills of the samurai warriors. It was practiced in ancient times as an
art of self-refinement, and is practiced for the same reason today.
In Iaido, defense and attack become one movement. For both practical and spiritual reasons, Iaido is primarily
solo training, although non-competitive two-person drills may be done with
wooden weapons.
Learning to handle the sword teaches students about themselves.
As they polish their sword skills they start to master themselves also.
Iaido teaches centering, focus and calmness, awareness and precision, as
well as traditional etiquette and the principles behind it.
It is not uncommon to find
Aikido students
also training in Iaido. Both arts hold mastery of self to be the ultimate goal.
Aikido and Iaido compliment each other through their refinement of forms and
movement.
Iaido practice at Chushinkan Dojo is a
supplement to your Aikido training. It is offered to our Aikido students who
wish to have a deeper understanding of the Japanese budo (martial ways).
There are many different styles of Iaido. At Chushinkan Dojo we practice
the Keishicho Ryu, Shintoho, Omori Ryu and Aikido Toho.
To join our practice, students must have a
traditional Japanese sword and a hakama (traditional pleated garment
worn by the samurai class in ancient Japan).
Practice swords average around $300,
though it is possible to find some for as little as $150. There are many swords on the market that are not recommended, so we
do advise prospective students to ask for advice before purchasing one.
