Iaido is a traditional Japanese Budo (i.e. martial art) concerned with drawing the Japanese sword (katana) and cutting in the same motion. Iaido is very much a Zen influenced martial art. The serene mind required to perform techniques of self defence in an otherwise stressfull situation epitomises the Zen spirit. It was created for the physical and mental discipline of Samurai warriors.

Iaido is unembellished and economical and deals with everyday situations rather than those on the battlefield. Iaido techniques deal with many situations, typically involving surprise attacks by one or more opponents from everyday standing or sitting positions. It is typically a defensive method and is not premeditated. It differs from Iaijutsu which is purely about practical application. It is also philosophically different to Kendo/Kenjutsu which only considers the use of the sword once it is drawn.

Iaido is a serious activity that is not performed by whim. The goal of self perfection in the art requires time and effort. Most Iaido practice is solo and is performed without protective coverings of any kind. Students must strive to achieve power, precision and perfection in their form. Movements must be performed with skill and the correct understanding of timing and distance and how various parts of the sword function with appropriate effort. Along the way, balance, grace and control of the mind and body are learnt. Practice must also be performed sincerely as if the situation were real in order to attain the highest level of skill.

HISTORY

The founder of Iaido is generally accepted to be the Japanese swordsman Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobou who lived around 1550 AD during the Muramachi Period. Most ancient schools of Iaido trace their roots back to this one man.

Many schools of Iaido (i.e. styles) were created however relatively few survive to today.

IAIDO FUNDAMENTALS

No matter what style is practiced Iaido comprises the same four main actions:

Nukitsuke (Drawing): The action of drawing the sword from the saya (i.e. scabbard) to meet a sudden encounter. The draw is a two handed operation that terminates in an effective single handed cut/strike.

Kirioroshi (Cutting): The style of cutting with a Japanese katana. The overhead cut is a typical example in which the left hand provides the power of the cut while the right hand provides minimal control.

Noto: The fluid action of returning the blade to the saya (i.e. scabbard) in a quick, safe and efficient manner.

Chiburi: The action of shaking the blood (i.e. enemies) from the sword while maintaining “Zanshin”

Other fundamental concepts (i.e. Kihon) include (but are not limited to) the following:

Sayabanari: The ability of the swordsmen to move fluidly in any direction and to position themselves and the saya for a fast and accurate draw - Nukitsuke.

Zanshin: A heightened state of awareness; perception of danger

Jo Ha Kyu: The timing involved in a draw; gradual acceleration.

Mi No Uchi: Keeping the sword close to the body at all times; involves minimal movement of the body.

Ten Uchi: Stopping the sword by wringing of the hands

Kissaki San Zun: Controlling sword tip with finger and thumb thus protecting the koiguchi. Also one handed cutting is with the Kissaki, the first three centimetres of the sword.

IAIDO PHILOSOPHY

Saya no uchi: Victory in the scabbard of the sword, i.e. victory occurs while sword is undrawn

Iai wa saya no naka: An opponent is best defeated without drawing the sword