Iaido is not about sword fighting but, its main purpose is to become better at using a sword. While viewing a swordsman moving slowly in a series of starts and stops it does not make sense at all. To the untrained eye Iaido seems strange because it is not what can be expected about sword fighting. Iaido is an offshoot of Kendo which is a traditional form of Japanese martial arts. There is also that fact that the philosophy use in training can benefit anyone in ordinary life circumstances as well. Iaido has manage to exist because there are individuals who saw value in the skills as a tool for modern martial arts training. Conformity is important because a sword must be made in certain way for a traditional Katana to pass restrictions. Wakizashi may be used but a standard Iaido kata practice calls for using Katana. When it comes to Iaido sword there are several contenders for this from Iaito to Shinken. The goal is to perform with a smooth and efficient motion as possible. Iaido is a martial art that involves the use of Japanese long sword: the Katana. What is Iaido? and Which type of sword should you use?
