Iaido is the traditional art of the Japanese sword. Chushinkan Iaido is a koryu practicing Nishio Toho Ryu, Omori Ryu, and other forms. Koryu are the traditional martial arts of the Japanese samurai, not to be confused with the modern sport arts such as Judo, Kendo, Tae Kwon Do, etc. To train in iaido with Chushinkan Iaido is to undertake a number of interrelated disciplines:
Tanren – Physical conditioning. Drills and exercises to refine physical conditioning and improve body movement and coordination. Drills also build endurance, humility and dedication in practitioners.
Waza – Best translated as exercises, these are the forms, or techniques, of the sword. The core teachings of the art. Waza are performed solo, against imaginary opponents.
Etiquette – The purpose of iaido is not to learn to fight on the battlefield with a sword, it is the development of the self – physically, morally, and spiritually.