Instructor
Here is a brief opportunity to introduce myself as an instructor. My name is Cornelius Lockau (*1961). I have been practicing Iaido for about 40 years.
Best competition achievement: first German Champion in 1992, category first Dan.
Certified rank: 5th Dan Iaido ZNKR, Muso Shinden Ryu. Further Budō experience: Kendo, Shorin-Ryu Karate, Wing Chun and Hsing-I. These complementary training forms deepen the understanding of Budō principles, sharpen awareness, movement coordination and responsiveness, and open up new perspectives in Iaido that are not so easily accessible through kata practice alone.
For about twenty years I have been an instructor and trainer in various Hamburg clubs:
– Goldbekhaus e.V.
– HTB 1860 e.V.
– Hakushinkai Hamburg e.V.
– SCP 1930 e.V. Hamburg
– HTBU e.V. Hamburg
In addition, I teached Iaido courses in the University Sports program of the University of Hamburg. Founding member of the German Iaido Federation, long-standing board member and editor of the federation’s journal Iaido-News.
Shuhari*
Currently, I practice independently of federations, examinations, and competitions. As a result, we do not have exams, certificates, or competitions. For me, continuous practice is paramount: learning, deepening, moving forward independently. The honest engagement with my path only began after transitioning into independence. This was the most difficult test I have taken in Iaido – and one that I must continue to face. I thank all my teachers and fellow practitioners for their patience up to this point.
For me, Iaido is a lifelong path of practice – 稽古は一生 (Keiko wa isshō). The responsibility for one’s own progress lies with each individual, as does the openness to new insights. Continuous practice remains the focus. Together with my students I want to remain open, exchange experiences on equal footing, and maintain an attitude that does not rely on appearances.