KUROYAMA   KAI

WHAT IS IAIDO

Iaido is an art of Japanese swordsmanship. Training is based on the study and practice of kata or forms involving drawing, cutting and re sheathing actions from a variety of seated and standing situations.  The techniques we teach have a long colourful history in Japan and have been developed and refined over hundreds of years.

Modern iaido is based upon ancient techniques that allowed Japanese warriors from the feudal period to be able to defend themselves by quickly drawing their swords and cutting down adversaries in the event of an unsuspected attack.  For the most part, forms are practised in a solo fashion against an imaginary opponent with paired exercises being introduced at advanced levels.

Seitei Kata                                                                        

Training initially involves the 12 standard forms (Seitei Kata) laid down by the All Japan Kendo Federation or Zen Nihon Kendo Renmei (ZNKR).  The original Seitei Iaido curriculum was developed by a technical committee of the ZNKR and introduced in 1968. The committee developed a set of seven kata that were heavily influenced by the forms and techniques of a broad cross section of classical sword schools.  Since the original kata were introduced, three kata were added in 1981 and a further two in 2000 bringing the set to a total of 12.

Seiza no bu

(kata commenced from the kneeling position Seiza)

1.   Ippon me - Mae

2.   Nihon me - Ushiro

3.   Sanbon me - Ukenagashi

Tate hiza no bu

(kata commenced from the seated position Tate Hiza)

4.   Yonhon me - Tsuka-ate 

Tachi no bu

(kata commenced from a standing position)

5.   Gohon me - Kesagiri

6.   Roppon me - Morotetsuki

7.   Nanahon me - Sanpogiri

8.   Happon me - Ganmenate

9.   Kyuhon me - Soetetsuki

10. Juppon me - Shihogiri

11. Juichippon me - Sougiri

12. Junippon me - Nuki uchi

The 12 Seitei Kata are the basis of a system of Iaido training that offers a significant 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.

Seitei is probably the most widely practised system of iaido in Japan and has a significant following throughout the world.  The standard or seitei kata introduce the basic principles of sword handling and are widely used as a basis for grading and competition.

Koryu Iaido                                                                      

At more advanced levels, the techniques of traditional Iaido systems (or Koryu) are studied.  These koryu provides an avenue of deeper study of the art and an opportunity to participate in a tradition whose history can be traced back through the origins of Iai over hundreds of years.

Instuctors at the Kuroyama Kai are able to provide opportunities to practise the following koryu:

     - Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu

     - Muso Shinden Ryu

Through links to other instuctors around Australia associated with the Australian Kendo Renmei, practise is also possible in:

     - Tamiya Ryu

     - Hoki Ryu

     - Yagyu Shinkage Ryu

Modern Application                                                           

Whilst the practical applications of the art are obviously limited in modern times, iaido remains relevant in its own right and as a means of supplementary training to any martial art or other activity. Regular training develops overall physical condition including coordination and posture, whilst the meditative aspects of practice also develop mental qualities of decisiveness and focus.

Grading                                                                            

Opportunities to sit for gradings are held throughout the year in conjunction with seminars.