Iaido
Iaido is associated with the smooth, controlled movements of drawing the sword from its scabbard or saya, striking or cutting an opponent, removing blood from the blade, and then replacing the sword in the scabbard.
Concept
Iaido can be defined by its 'kanji' or characters as meaning 'the way of harmonizing one's self in action at all times and in all conditions.'
The term 'iaido' approximately translates into English as "the way of mental presence and immediate reaction"
Iaido is not practiced as a two-person combative martial art. One imagines opponents while moving through combat sequences, known in Japanese as 'kata'.
History
Iaido swordmanship takes some of its basic forms from a number of different disciplines predating the collapse of the Japanese feudal system in 1868. It was only after this collapse that Iaido was recognized as a Japanese discipline of swordmanship.
Throughout the 20th century, a number of iaido organizations were formed, including the All Japan Kendo Federation from which we stem.
Schools
Musō Shinden-ryū
A popular version of techniques from seiza (sitting position) created by Nakayama Hakudō (1872 - 1958) in the 1932. The Musō Shinden-ryū is an interpretation of one of the Jinsuke-Eishin lines, called Shimomura-ha.
Our club teaches Musō Shinden-ryū but invite and welcome members of other iaido schools to train with us.
Ranks & Grading
The Canadian Kendo Federation awards ranks to practicioners of Iaido who attend grading sessions and show a mastery of the skills and specific kata required for the attempted rank.
While all practicioners of Iaido have the opportunity to attend gradings and achieve offical ranks, they are not necesary for practiciing Iaido. Some of our members hold ranks in Iaido, while others just continue to practice without the pressure of grading.
Organizations
Within Canada, the Canadaian Kendo Federation governs the ranks and teaching of Iaido. However, many other organizations exist outside of Canada which perform similar governing tasks.
Links to some of the more pertinent organizations, clubs, and Iaido resources can be found on the home page.
Etiquette
Below are some of the basic etiquette rules we follow during practice at the Saskatoon Iaido Club:
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Remove shoes outside the dojo
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Bow to the room as a sign of respect when entering or exiting
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Practice in bare feet
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Accept the instructions of the Sensei (teacher) without hesitation unless you require clarification