Iaido Society

Iaidō is the art of drawing a Japanese sword from its scabbard to obtain advantage over an opponent. Training begins with a wooden sword (bokutō) to learn the basic actions of sword use then progresses on to performance of solo kata – set forms that incorporate various actions linked together to resemble the use of the sword in a particular situation. As students advance, they will go on to use a replica sword (mogitō/iaitō) and paired kata can also be performed (with bokutō). Iaidō is a form of mental and physical discipline, emphasising correct technique, form and character development. It encourages strength, balance, co-ordination and suppleness. Teaching will be provided on ZNKR iaidō and koryū (old school) forms. If you are interested, please contact us at iaido@durham.ac.uk to arrange coming along to a session to see what we do. Our trianing time is 18:30 - 20:30 every Monday in the Vane Tempest room in the Student Union.