wnd's weblog

After three months of rigorous training, I have succesfully completed the sixth kyu in iaido. Ok fine, it may not have been rigorous training but it sure has been fun doing it. And that’s what matters.

Having completed the 6th kyu in kendo I was allowed to start practicing iaido and jodo in our club. Iaido was the reason why I started doing kendo in the first place. However, as it turned out, the club arranged a beginners’ course for iaido this year, which did not require any previous knowledge of martial arts.

At first I was unsure if I wanted to go on with kendo and do both but the answer soon became clear. After a few iaido lessons, doing kendo started to feel more and more alien. I mean, practicing kendo is nice and it’s a great way to get some exercise, but it’s just not “me”. Kendo is loud and agressive – and I’m neither.

The result? The sixth kyu in iaido and kendo, two great experiences, and lot of interest to keep practicing iaido. Think about it; I already participated to a seminar held by 7th dan sensei Peter West! That’s the way to go.