CULIA

What is Aikido and Iaido? 

Link to

AI KI DO:    New England Aikikai  Aikikai Fundaton

I AI DO:  Kiyoi Kaze Iaido Federation

*

AIKIDO

*

Aikido techniques consist of entering and turning movements that redirect the momentum of an opponent's attack, and a throw or joint lock that terminates the technique.^[5]

Aikido derives mainly from the martial art of Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu, but began to diverge from it in the late 1920s, partly due to Ueshiba's involvement with the Ōmoto-kyō religion. Ueshiba's early students' documents bear the term aiki-jūjutsu.^[6]

Ueshiba's senior students have different approaches to aikido, depending partly on when they studied with him. Today aikido is found all over the world in a number of styles, with broad ranges of interpretation and emphasis. However, they all share techniques formulated by Ueshiba and most have concern for the well-being of the attacker.

IAIDO

The Japanese characters for iaido is:
I=being. AI=harmony, DO=way. "The way of harmony oneself in action.

The Iaidoka(a practitioner of iaido) executes various techniques against single or multiple imaginary opponents. Each Waza begins and ends with the sword sheathed. In addition to sword technique, practitioners require imagination and concentration in order to maintain the feeling of a real fight and to keep the Kata fresh. In order to properly perform the waza, Iaidoka also learn posture and movement,  grip, ad swing.

Iaidoka practice to prepare for surprise attack, where an immediate, efficient solution to the problem of aggression is necessary. Therefore, the technique is highly refined. Every unnecessary movement is cut away. Technique is simple and direct. The training method is aimed toward development of the practitioner's every mental and physical resource. 

Iaido is an authentic martial art that prove its martial values in a time of constant battle and warfare, that was preserved and passed on directly from teacher to student over generations in an unbroken lineage for 450 years. Iaidoka developed the mind toward an ultimately peaceful, harmonious, and active state ready t react and deal with any life situation.