Iaido Introduction
Iaido is a Japanese marshal art that teaches sword form (kata). A typical form consists of the draw and cut, a finishing cut, cleaning blood from the blade and returning it to the scabbard.
Various swords may be used in Iaido depending on the skill and training of the practitioner. There are wooden swords, unsharpened metal swords and sharpened metal swords. Iaido focuses on sword handling and not upon strategy or sparring technique.
The primary emphasis in Iaido is the state of being present. The secondary emphasis is on responding to the surprise attacks quickly. Starting positions may be combat positions or everyday positions such as sitting. The ability to react from various starting positions is a focus of Iaido.
Iaido is often taught in conjunction with a Kendo or Aikido program.
For more information check out the Iaido Guide.
