F.A.Q. – Iaido-Nord

Can I practise Iaido?

Practising Iaido is a long term. The techniques increase in in difficulty and so do the demands the longer you learn. After having bought an <em>Iaito</em> (sword-copy) your educational level and the intensity of your learning develope. You do not need to be sportsmanlike. Your physical strength, agility, endurance etc. rise by concentrating on doing the kata of its own volition. Physical fitness or budo-experience however may be useful ;–)

How to pronounce Iaido and what meaning has it?

Jeidoo. The word Iaido consists of 3 japanese characters (Kanji): i-ai-do. »I« means presence, »Ai« means the right understanding and »Do« is the way. The synonym »Do« can be found in many japanese martial arts and understands the training as way of life. Iaido seems to be the soul of many Japanese martial arts. I think it is above all intellectual authorship, but: Iaido is practicing with the sword, karate emphasizes the body technique, etc. They are all independent paths that go together spiritually. Often theoretical considerations of technology and its application come to the same results.

How to begin?

Simply join our training! Here at you can take a 5-times subscription (HTBU). Wear loose sweat suit, jogging trousers and a sweatshirt for instance. For introduction a Bokken (wooden sword) will be placed at your disposal. For me as trainer it is important to take special care of you at first. As a beginner, you have a particularly difficult time and struggle with so many things to get started..

How much does it cost?

You do not have any financial expense at the beginning (look above). If you continue, you pay the . Later you buy : a Hakama (trousers), an Obi (wider belt), a Keiko-Gi (Japanese jacket). oon you want to satisfy the wish to learn with a training sword. A Iaito costs up to 200 Euro second hand, all new from 400 to 750 Euro according to the quality. We will give you assistance in obtaining the right one for you.

Where does Iaido come from?

Iaido accrues from Japan. It is practised in different styles (Ryu). These ryu comprise training sequences, which inclose techniques and tactics of a swordplay. In the past age you could learn this at the dojo of a Senseis (Teacher) but you had to study his style only. Today, the exercise has democratized and ›non-samurai‹ can are allowed try it.
Iaido as a form of Zen training form rose around 1600 with Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu (1542 to 1621). Later (1900) Hakudo founded the Muso Shinden Ryu (想神伝流). Heutiges Iaido of today is tought and spread in this style and further publicly available systems.

Does one fight with one another?

Because the control of a genuine Katanas (sharp sword with live blade) is aimed at, you do not start against each other contrary to the related . There is however a match form in the Iaido. It is called »Taikai«. 2 sword fighters compare themselves. They demonstrate at the same time several Katas. Those are fixed courses of motion of a fight. Experienced referees judge the execution. It quickly becomes clear, which fighter would have been better.

I dont need competition

o learn Iaido is in deep not a preparation for competition or examination. The high level of disciplin which is necessary to overcome your limitations is also struggle. Therefore we need no competitions. We prefer (common) demonstration (Enbu) bevorzugt, in which each one can show his progress.

Do I have the correct age?

The correct attitude is crucial. If you can concentrate correctly, (or to attain to wish), keep our Dojo rules, then you are correct with the Iaido. Most often, this condition occurs at the earliest from the age of 16.

My daughter / son is only 16, can she come to practice?

Dear parents its ok! I would also find it very useful if you come over with your children to watch the training. So you can get an idea of me and the practitioners. Open questions can be discussed with me.

Is Iaido dangerous?

No. In partner exercises wooden swords (Bokken) are used. They are led in controlled way. In individual training one uses as a beginner a Bokken or as progressing a blunt sword reproduction (Iaito). Because of strict safety margin and because everyone pay attention, nothing can happen. Sport injuries are rare.

When do I need a sword?

Iaido is to exercise with the sword, so sooner or later you should purchase one. You can practice without doubt with a wooden sword (Bokken) for up to one year. Practicing with a sword (Iaito) however is a special quality, so after first learning of kata someone rather quickly wants to acquire one.

I have buyed a sword for myself. Can I use it?

I like to look at the sword. Most of the swords are unfortunately ornamental swords, which are not built strong enough for real practicing. The handles are not fixed, the blades are much too short or too heavy. Swords are often sharpened. It is just too dangerous for a beginner.