Iaido
Iaido is a Japanese martial art that is practiced primarily for personal physical and spiritual development, but also for competition. Iaido is characterized by drawing a sword from the scabbard and cutting in one motion; the name means "having the presence of mind to be flexible in response to an emergency." Developed during the Tokugawa period (1600/1603–1868), when a symbol of samurai authority was the long, curved, single-edged sword, the art was perfected by Jinsuke Shinenobu (c. 1546–1621) and his students. Iaido practice involves drawing the sword, making the initial cut, making the finishing cuts, cleaning the blade, and sheathing the sword. Different techniques are used depending on the position of the opponent and the number of opponents. Iaido is generally performed alone, with the performer facing an imaginary opponent. In competitions, the performers stand side by side and their technique is rated by judges. Iaido is less popular than other Japanese martial arts and has been less influenced by efforts to make it an international competitive sport.
Further Reading
Craig, Darrell. (1988) Iai: The Art of Drawing the Sword. Tokyo: Charles E. Tuttle.
Obata Toshishiro. (1987) Crimson Steel: The Sword Technique of the Samurai. Westlake Village, CA: Dragon Enterprises.
Taylor, Kim. (1994) Kim's Big Book of Iaido. 5 vols. Guelph, Canada: Sei DoKai.
This is the complete article, containing 212 words
(approx. 1 page at 300 words per page).
