Iaido

Iaido is the modern martial art of Japanese Sword drawing. Originally a method practiced by swordsmen in feudal Japan for despatching an enemy quickly and clinically, it is now practiced by people of all ages, men and women, from all walks of life as a means of self cultivation.

Though the actions of the sword are undoubtedly still potentially lethal, as people now do not commonly carry swords they obviously have no bearing in terms of self defence in today's society. Iaido is generally practiced without a partner [opponent], the idea being more to confront ones self with the physical and mental difficulties of practice rather than overcoming any exterior attacker.

Though Iaido is a modern 'Martial Way' [Budo] it is steeped in tradition, history and Philosophy. Iaido is perhaps the most philosophically orientated of all the Japanese martial arts, these aspects giving it an old and esoteric flavour which undoubtedly contributes to its appeal.