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Iaido: the art of using the Japanese sword  
 

James Nakayama Sensei practices Iaido at Chushinkan DojoIaido (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.

Aikido students in Vidin, Bulgaria learn about the Japanese swordIt 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. 

Iaido is a very precise art. There are many details for a new student to learn about the sword, etiquette, and hakama.

In addition to the regular dojo Aikido fees, there is a $20/$40 monthly fee for Iaido training for aikido/non aikido students.