In that sense, they are very mentally challenging. The martial arts that employ the sword are very interesting arts in that they require you to think very deeply about every move (motion) you make. We also offer a kendo workshop in which our iaido students can learn fundamental kendo techniques, which helps build their understanding of distancing, timing, rhythm, and angles, to deepen their iaido practice. The Japanese Martial Arts Center offers classes in Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu, which is probably the most widely practiced form of iaido worldwide. Yagyu-Seigo Ryu and Kataichi Ryu are two forms of Battojutsu. The word 'batto' means 'sword drawing' but, as a practical matter, most batto systems are more focused on swordplay after the sword is drawn than are most iai systems. Unlike iaido and iaijutsu, kenjutsu usually focuses more on swordplay after the sword has been drawn.Д«attojutsu and Battodo refer to arts that are very similar to iaijutsu and iaido. Shingyoto Ryu and Suio Ryu are two styles of kenjutsu, but there are many others. Some include empty hand techniques or other weaponry. Usually they consists of many different aspects, including formal techniques, practical techniques, and conditioning drills.

Many are niche arts practiced by a few teachers and students, closely guarded for centuries. Kenjutsu refers to many older sword styles. Kendo is very physical, but also contains deep philosophical roots. The players wear padded armor, and can score with an unopposed strike to the other's head, wrist, abdomen, or throat. Kendo refers to the relatively modern Japanese sport in which participants try to score points by striking one another with shinai (bamboo practice swords). Generally, iaido and iaijutsu refer to arts that focus more on the instant of drawing than on wielding the sword after the draw. There are many styles of iaijutsu, including Hoki-Ryu, Tamiya-Ryu, and Mugai-Ryu. Like iaido, iaijutsu is taught primarily through the practice of forms, but in general the movements are closer to the historical movements of older sword styles, and not as close to the modern iaido standard motions. Iaijutsu refers to an older form of iaido that focuses more on the military or fighting aspect of swordplay.

The two most widely practiced iaido styles are Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu and Muso Shinden Ryu. The major motions in iaido are the draw, cut, whipping the blood off the blade, and resheathing, but the hallmark of legitimate iaido is the fast, effective draw that not only gets the sword out of the scabbard, but also cuts the attacker. Iaido is a word composed of three parts: ee, meaning 'to exist' ai, meaning 'harmony' or 'unification' and do, meaning 'path' or 'way.' It refers to the most widely practiced formal sword styles, usually made up primarily of solo forms, or 'waza.' Each form is a prearranged sequence of motions designed to simulate defense against an attack by a swordsperson. Included among the sword arts are iaido, iaijutsu, kendo, kenjutsu, battojutsu, and battodo.

All have valuable aspects that help practitioners develop strength, coordination, mental acuity, and a strong character. Some emphasize formal techniques, some emphasize sparring.

The Japanese martial arts that employ the sword take many forms.

Iaido definition