about iaido
Iaido is the study of drawing and cutting with the Japanese sword. The techniques we teach have a long colourful history in Japan and have been developed and refined over hundreds of years.
seitei iaido
Seitei is probably the most widely practised system of iaido (or sword drawing) in Japan and has a significant following throughout the world.
The original Seitei Iaido curriculum was developed by a technical committee of the ZNKR and introduced in 1968. The committee (made up of members the Muso Shinden Ryu, Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu and Hoki Ryu) developed a set of seven kata that were heavily influenced by the forms and techniques of a broad cross section of classical sword schools.
In 1977 a new committee drawn from members of the same schools and with the addition of Tsumaki Seirin (Soke of Tamiya Ryu) were asked to extend the curriculum and an additional three kata that were added in 1981. Two further kata were added in 2000 to bring the set to a total of 12.
the challenge of training in iaido
The 12 kata of the ZNKR are the basis of a system of Iaido training that offers a real challenge and at the same time is extremely rewarding. The movements are often simple but can be very difficult to master. Ongoing practice builds the skill and understanding needed to perform each kata with precision and control.
