In practice iaido training consists of practicing forms called kata. KATA means a series of movements, where one practices various kinds of sword maneuvers.
Each kata consists of four parts: NUKITSUKE (drawing of the sword from its scabbard), KIRITSUKE (cutting action), CHIBURI (shaking blood off the blade) and NOTO (the sword is returned to the scabbard).
In Iaido, one practices without an opponent. The techniques vary considerably and they are performed from differing starting positions: crouching, sitting, lying, standing or walking.
Every direction of attack is studied: left, right, front and rear, in dark and light. Sometimes one studies situations, where there are external obstacles such as a confined space, which does not allow a normal draw, or perhaps an obstacle hanging low above the student. There are techniques used against another iai opponent and forms used for countering an enemy, who tries to prevent the iaidoka from drawing his sword by grasping the hilt or the scabbard, either from the front or the rear.
A real Japanese sword (katana), practice sword (iaito) or wooden sword (bokken) is used in iaido practice. The sword is handled with respect and observing good manners.
In the beginning and at the end of a training period the student bows to his sword. One does not step over somebody else's sword or touch it without the permission of the owner.
Black Dragon Iaido consists of 25 basic katas.
Emphasis is placed on form, correctness, and
proper kenshin. Students learn proper ettiqute
and respect for the katana. Iaido teaches not
only how to use a sword but also how to apply
these lessons in all other aspects of the
martial arts.
