• Do I need special equipment to start training? You can start with a T-shirt and sweatpants but there are particular items of clothing and equipment that must be used for this martial art. Iaido practitioners wear a jacket similar to those used for karate but they are longer and more sturdy. A hakama covers the lower part of the jacket from the waist down and is worn over the legs. This is a traditional men's garment similar to long pleated culottes. It is not a skirt; it is divided into separate sections for the legs. A long, wide cotton or silk belt (kakuobi) is wrapped around the waist to secure the sword. It is longer and wider than the simple belts used for karate. Rank is not displayed by a specific belt color.

• Knee pads are also recommended because much of iaido is done from a kneeling position. Regarding knee pads, the thinner, the better. There are many options these days in sports equipment shops. Beginners are often first taught from the standing position and special accommodations can be made for students with knee problems. It is possible to learn all of the waza from the standing position.

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• Do I need a sword to start training? A sword is required for more advanced practice but beginners can buy a wooden sword with a plastic sheath: this is an economical way to train until you are ready to make the investment in a metal weapon. The weight, geometry, and length of a metal sword are much superior to a wooden sword, so it is encouraged to buy such once you are certain about training. 
• If you want to go ahead and get a sword, we are currently recommending buying one of the entry-level iaito from Tozando, a company based in Japan (we have no relationship to them). At the time of this writing (October 2020), they offer a reasonably priced iaito that several of our students have been using with satisfaction. The following is a link to their model that most beginners find appropriate: 
• http://www.tozandoshop.com/Toryumon-Classic-Iaito-Sword-Fast-Shipping-p/070-toryumon[fast].htm
• Other options exist, of course, so it is best to ask Hanshi if you are looking for something different before making a commitment.

 

• Are dan ranks (black belts) awarded? We offer kyu and dan ranks but testing is not required to progress in our school. Time spent training and learning is far more important in determining "rank" than any grading system. Rank is offered merely as a reference point, not an end unto itself. Testing is offered 1-2 times annually, depending on the number of students and their progress.​

 

• Is there sparring in iaido? Iaido is primarily the practice of sword waza. These are pre-established patterns representing specific​ situations and are performed alone. There is no sparring with live swords in our school. We do paired exercises with bokuto (wooden swords) and occasionally practice the waza with a partner to demonstrate what an opponent would be doing in that situation.

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• How frequent is training?  Classes are offered twice a week. Please see the homepage for current times and contact information. Upper level students occasionally train on their own after hours or on extra days during the week. Arrangements can be made to join them if more training time is desired.

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• What does training cost? Monthly class fees are $75 for training once a week and are $125 for twice a week. Individual classes with Miki-sensei can also be arranged for current students.