What is iaido?
Iaido is a term used to describe the various styles of Japanese swordsmanship which have their origins in combative sword-drawing techniques developed from the sixteenth century. As such it is regarded as one of the forms of classical budo. The characteristic feature of iaido practice is the rapid draw and cut performed in a single movement, known as “nukitsuke”. It is this feature of practice that distinguishes iaido from other forms of classical swordsmanship.
What does ‘iaido’ mean?
The term ‘iai’ is not easily translated, but may be understood as referring to a state of physical and mental/spiritual readiness and flexibility, in which the exponent is able to intuitively understand and respond in the most appropriate manner to any action or event.
What is Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu?
Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu is one of the most well-known and widely studied “schools” of iaido both in Japan and abroad. The school traces it’s origins to the founder, Hayashizaki Jinsuke Minamoto Shigenobu, who was born in the middle of the 16th century, circa 1546. The school became fragmented on the death of the 17th headmaster, Oe Masaji (sometimes given as “Masamichi”) in 1927. There are now several branches or traditions (“ha”) practicing differing versions of the curriculum.
Is previous martial arts experience necessary to study iaido?
No previous martial arts experience is necessary to take up iaido training, although most people that train in the discipline have some background in other martial arts. The only restriction for prospective students at Kenseikai Ireland is that you must be at least 18 years of age.
Do I need to purchase equipment and clothing in order to train?
You do not need any clothing or equipment to begin training – we will provide you with an obi (belt) and a bokuto (wooden sword) for the class. If you would like to come and visit the dojo and have dogi from another discipline (e.g. karate), you are welcome to wear it; if not it is recommended that you wear loose clothing. Should you decide later to purchase clothing and your own sword we will advise you how to do so.
Please note that no fee is payable for your first class.
What kind of swords are used for training?
Novices begin training with a bokuto (wooden sword) which is used with a plastic saya (scabbard). When students are ready to commit to training they obtain an iaito, a training sword made according to traditional methods with an alloy blade which is blunt. If you already own a sword, either wooden or metal, and wish to bring it to the dojo for training, you will be required to submit it for inspection prior to the beginning of class. If it is deemed unsuitable or inappropriate you will not be permitted to train with it in the dojo.
Our Child Protection and Safeguarding policy documents may be reviewed by using the links below:
Kenseikai Dojo Child Protection Policy Kenseikai Dojo Safeguarding
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