Introduction to Iaidō - Japanese Sword Martial Art

What is Iaidō?
Iaidō is a Japanese martial art focused on using the sword, drawing and cutting in a single stroke. It is practised in prearranged movements called “kata” against different scenarios and surprise attacks from imaginary opponents.

Course details:
This is a 10-week introduction set of classes starting on the 29th Jan. All beginners from 15 years and up welcome.

Register on our website.

The 10-week introduction course covers:
- Dojo etiquette, bowing in and out of class and correct weapon handling
- Building your Iaido muscles and warming up
- Gripping and cutting correctly with the sword
- Correct posture and movement
- Understand distance and timing
- History and culture of Iaido
- The 5 fundamentals of all iaido kata
- Begin learning 3 kata of the Seitei Iaido set
- Try some paired Kendo/Iaidō kata

(Optional: you can also attend extra Saturday trainings to progress faster).

What to wear: We recommend loose comfortable clothing (T-shirt and 3/4; sweatpants are ideal). A pair of soft knee pads are a must-have (volleyball style, can be purchased from sports shops or online).