Iaido Singapore

IAIDO

居合道

ZNKR Iaido (全剣連居合道)

Iaido, a traditional martial art of Japan. It is an art of Japanese swordsmanship that emphasizes being aware and capable of quickly drawing the sword and responding to a sudden attack.

Training of Iaido has benefited and improves

Personal Growth
Self-confidence
Body coordination
Physical Fitness
Calmness
Focus
Dealing with Fear
Learning respect through etiquette.

Iaido originally evolved from the old school sword art of Iai-jutsu, of which we are still taught. Iaido is usually performed with an unsharpened sword. However, more experience and qualified practitioners use a sharp blade in solo practice. unsharpened sword, are often used by beginners until the safety aspects have been learnt.

The History of Iaido and Japanese Battojutsu

Iaido, originating from the ancient Japanese martial art Iaijutsu, is a traditional samurai sword art centered around the concept of “neutralising the enemy in a single, instantaneous draw.” It is not only a practical combat technique but also a discipline that integrates the spirit of Bushido, physical control, and mental cultivation.

Origins

The history of Iaijutsu dates back to the late 16th century during Japan’s Warring States period (Sengoku era). It was founded by Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu, who is considered the progenitor of Iaijutsu. He introduced the tactical concept of drawing the sword swiftly from a seated or standing position to counter a sudden attack. This technique was especially valued outside of the battlefield, where sudden assaults could occur during daily life, making it an essential skill for both self-defense and dueling.

Iaijutsu vs. Iaido

Iaijutsu is more oriented toward practical combat. It emphasizes efficiency, speed, and lethality, and is classified as koryu bujutsu (classical martial arts), such as Tamiya Shinken-ryu, Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu, Mugai-ryu, and Hoki-ryu.

Iaido, on the other hand, evolved from Iaijutsu after World War II and focuses more on aesthetics of form and spiritual refinement. It is considered a modern budo, and since the 1940s, it has been standardized and promoted by the All Japan Kendo Federation (Zen Nihon Kendo Renmei).

Technique and Spirit

At the heart of Iaido lies the art of drawing the sword - executing the draw, cut, and re-sheathing in one fluid motion, all within an instant. Practitioners train not only in technique but also in maintaining calmness, focus, etiquette, and self-discipline -embodying the spirit and dignity of the traditional Japanese samurai.

Modern Development

Today, Iaido is practiced worldwide and has become a path for many martial arts enthusiasts to cultivate both mind and body. It is more than a martial art; it is a means of self-discovery and spiritual growth through the way of the sword.

The 12 Kata of ZNKR Iaido

The techniques themselves dealt with many situations such as a sudden attack by several opponents, a surprise attack while bowing to someone, an enemy lying in wait behind a sliding door or an attack in a darkened room.

12 forms of ZNKR Iaido -

Mae (前). Front. Commencing from a kneeling position, forestalling a frontal attack.
Ushiro (後ろ). Rear. Commencing from a kneeling position, forestalling an attack from the rear.
Ukenagashi (受け流し) Receive, Parry and Cut. Commencing from a kneeling position, parrying an attack from the left.
Tsuka-ate (柄当て). Striking with the Hilt. Commencing from a raised knee, seated position, forestalling two attackers, front and rear.
Kesagiri (袈裟切り). Diagonal Cut. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling an approaching attacker.
Morote-zuki (諸手突き). Two-Hand Thrust. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling three approaching attackers, two in front and one behind.
Sanpogiri (三方切り). Three Direction Cut. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling three approaching attackers, one each to the right, left and front.
Ganmen-ate (顔面当て). Hit to the Face. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling two approaching attackers, front and rear.
Soete-zuki (添え手突き). Joined Hand Thrust. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling an attack from the left.
Shihogiri (四方切り). Four Direction Cutting. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling four approaching attackers.
Sogiri (総切り). Complete Cuts. Five different and complete cuts. Commencing from a standing position.
Nukiuchi (抜き打ち). Sudden Draw. Avoid, then respond to an attack from the front. Commencing from a standing position.