What is Eishin-ryu iaido?

Basically, it is the art of drawing a Japanese sword. Over 400 years old, tradition and lineage are very important. Swordsmanship is at the heart of traditional Japanese martial arts.

What is the purpose of practicing Eishin-ryu Iaido?

Iaido, as a "DO" art (path/way), is overwhelmingly practiced for personal self-development.

What does that mean?

Discipline, mental acuteness and focus, self-confidence, participation in a completely new way of learning and using your body.... developing the same mental and physical skills that made the Japanese swordsman the finest warrior to walk the world.

Are there any other benefits?

Stress relief is a direct result of training. Physical fitness, poise, and strength will be gained. Finally, an intimate view into the beauty of the Japanese sword and the culture from which it emerged.

Who is the instructor and how much experience does he have?

John Ray is a 7th degree black belt and licensed instructor, having started iaido in 1981. He studied iaido for 10 years in Japan and joins only a handful of Americans with extensive experience in martial arts as taught in Japan.

Is there any fighting in class? What is a class like?

There is no sparring. Iaido is solitary practice. We learn to use the sword in combat based situations in a a quiet, intense atmosphere. There is little chatter or outside disturbances.

So, is this a kind of spiritual meditation?

Yes and no. It is not a religion, nor is it a form of "yoga". However, "mushin" and "zanshin", Japanese concepts of heightened "watchfulness" and "focus" are emphasized and practiced. These qualities will certainly help anyone in both day-to-day and stressful situations.

Can I use any of this in a self-defense situation in the street?

Not directly.... unless you carry your sword around with you. However, the acute sensitivity to surroundings, enhanced physical control, and mental focus can't help but have a positive effect in any tense situation.

What kind of equipment do I need? Is it expensive?

All that is required at the beginning is that you come in comfortable clothes. We have Bokken (wooden swords) for anyone to use as long as they like. However, the first purchase will probably be the costume, including hakama (loose trousers), uwagi (top), and obi (belt). All three can cost less than $100 on up, depending on the quality. Down the road, you will want an iaito (unsharpened, alloy sword). They are from $200 and up.

How long will it take me to get my black belt in this art?

As a traditional art, iaido considers the first degree black belt to be the beginning of serious training. Depending on attendance, testing can take from 1 1/2 to 3 years.