Introductory Courses - 2025
The course costs £85, payable before commencement of the course. You will need to provide comfortable clothing and knee pads
To reserve for place on the course please email the dojo leader
By the end of this 8-week course, students will have a fundamental understanding of Iaido, a series of basic kata, and the principles underlying this martial art, preparing them for further study and practice.
Introduction to Iaido: 8-Week Course Summary
Week 1: Introduction to Iaido
- Overview of Iaido: History, philosophy, and etiquette
- Basic dojo etiquette and safety rules
- Introduction to the equipment: Iaito (practice sword), obi (belt), and keikogi (training uniform)
- Basic stances and footwork (kamae and ashi-sabaki)
Week 2: Fundamental Techniques
- Detailed practice of standing bow (rei) and seated bow (za-rei)
- Introduction to basic sword handling and drawing (nukitsuke)
- Practice of the first kata: Mae (from seiza position)
- Focus on precision and control in movements
Week 3: Developing Form and Balance
- Refinement of Mae kata
- Introduction to second kata: Ushiro (from seiza position)
- Emphasis on smooth, continuous movement and balance
- Basic exercises for improving posture and core strength
Week 4: Advanced Techniques and Etiquette
- Detailed practice of Ushiro kata
- Introduction to third kata: Uke Nagashi (from seiza position)
- Proper re-sheathing of the sword (noto)
- Exploration of advanced footwork techniques
Week 5: Seiza to Standing Transition
- Refinement of Uke Nagashi kata
- Introduction to standing kata: Tsuka Ate
- Transition from seated (seiza) to standing position with fluidity
- Drills to improve coordination and timing
Week 6: Intermediate Kata Practice
- Detailed practice of Tsuka Ate kata
- Introduction to fifth kata: Kesa Giri (standing)
- Emphasis on proper cutting angles and targeting
- Group practice and feedback sessions
Week 7: Refining Techniques and Personal Development
- Refinement of all previously learned kata
- Introduction to sixth kata: Morote Tsuki (standing)
- Focus on individual areas for improvement
- Breathing techniques and mental focus exercises
Week 8: Review and Demonstration
- Comprehensive review of all six kata
- Individual performance assessments and feedback
- Discussion on the philosophical aspects of Iaido
- Final demonstration
Course Goals
- To provide a solid foundation in the basics of Iaido
- To develop physical coordination, balance, and mental focus
- To instill the principles of discipline, respect, and continuous self-improvement in martial arts practice
