| Q-1@ |
What does "Iai" practice?@Is anything cut? |
| A |
Art of Iai assumes a situation where the enemy unexpectedly tries to do one harm. Iai practices these techniques alone
as "Kata (forms)" Nothing is cut in the practice of Iai. |
| Q-2@ |
Should I have experience in kendo if I want to begin the practice of "Iai"? |
| A |
Iai is Budo that performed as solo Kata (forms) using the katana (Japanese sword). There are no problems even if one has no experience in kendo. |
| Q-3@ |
Is the practice of "Iai" possible for women? |
| A |
Women can also practice iai without worry. Because "Iai" doesn't fight against others like in judo, kendo, etc., differences in physical strength, etc. to no matter. There are a lot of older people and women who practice in Osaka. |
| Q-4@ |
How much money does it cost if one wants to start "Iai"? |
| A |
Clothes for the practice and a katana are necessary to practice Iai. For clothing, a Hakama, Iaigi, and Obi, etc. are need and they cost about 33,000 yen in total.
The beginner uses a sword that doesn't cut, but looks like the real thing. This is called a "Mogito" and various kinds are sold starting from about 30,000 yen.
You may practice with a true sword when you have advanced in skill. Because a true sword is very expensive, it is also important to save up money systematically.
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| Q-5 |
How other expenses are there excluding the equipment fees? |
| A |
The initiation fee is 2000 yen, and the monthly fee is 2000 yen. When participating in special events, a registration fee (usually 2000-3000 yen) is necessary.
Moreover, when you take a promotion (-dan) examination, testing fees are necessary.
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| Q-6@ |
How soon can I take the first "- dan" after starting practice? |
| A |
Beginners will learn the 12 Seitei kata first, and when these can be done proficiently, you can take the promotion (-dan) examination.
You will be able to acquire 1- dan(sho-dan), although it is influenced by the timing of the examination, after about one year of ardent practice.
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