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Iaido

Iaido

What is Iaido?

Iaido (居合道) is the Japanese martial art of drawing and cutting with the sword. It focuses on smooth, precise movements where practitioners draw the katana, execute a cut, and return the sword to the scabbard in a single flow.

Iaido developed in the 16th century from samurai sword arts and was formalized in the modern era as a discipline emphasizing mindfulness, precision, and etiquette. Unlike Kendo, which focuses on sparring, Iaido is mostly practiced through kata (forms).

Why Train Iaido?

  • Focus & Mindfulness – meditative, precise training.
  • Authentic Sword Art – direct link to samurai tradition.
  • Discipline & Etiquette – strong cultural and spiritual value.
  • Accessible – no need for full-contact sparring.
  • Unique in Europe – fewer schools than Kendo, niche but respected.

How Does Iaido Compare?

  • Vs Kendo – Iaido emphasizes forms, Kendo emphasizes sparring.
  • Vs HEMA – both study sword traditions, but from different cultures.
  • Vs Sibpalgi – Iaido is sword-only, Sibpalgi includes many weapons.

Iaido in Europe

Iaido spread to Europe in the 20th century, often alongside Kendo. Today, it is practiced in specialized dojos, with strong communities in the UK, Germany, France, and other countries.