Iaido is a meditative practice consisting of drawing and cutting with the sword. Its focus is precision and accuracy.

Boston Aikikai offers several iaido classes a week (see calendar). It is a separate martial art from aikido, although some people who practice aikido also study iaido.

Each class starts with a warm-up, followed by the individual practice of a set of katas, under the guidance of the instructor.

Beginners with sincere interest are welcome to join the practice at any time during the year. The dojo can provide a bokken (wooden sword) to start with, until the instructor suggests getting your own iaito (metal-bladed sword). For the practice, we wear a gi and hakama (traditional Japanese uniform), which can be purchased at the dojo.

If interested in iaido, please contact the instructors, Vu X. Ha or Catherine Lefebvre.

Learn more about iaido and the dojo etiquette.