The art of drawing the sword. The art of the "fast-draw".

Japanese -n. The sport of sword-drawing. A rather refined and contemplative practice, having more to do with ritual and ceremony than practical martial applications.

Iaido (or Iaijutsu) is the art of drawing the katana, chopping down the opponent, flipping blood from the blade, and then re-sheathing the katana in one fluid movement. The emphasis is on drawing the sword and attacking as quickly as possible. Starting positions can be from combative postures or from everyday sitting or standing positions. Practitioners could expect a surprise attack at any time, and the ability to react quickly from an everyday starting position was considered essential.

( 居合道 ) Way of Preparedness