from cover

The original purpose of iaido was to slay an opponent with one stroke of the sword upon unsheathing; today it is practiced as a martial art, one that improves concentration, develops strength and coordination, and cultivates awareness of an ancient culture and its traditions. this manual of Eishin-Ryu or 'Pure Faith' iaido, teaches the most widely practiced sword style, and is illustrated with step-by-step drawings to help students, from beginners to advanced, hone their forms and technques. Introductory chapters explaining the history and evolution of the art, the Japnese sword and related equipment, and the etiquette and code of the samurai, while an extensive glossary and bibliography are provided for further reference.

Nicklaus Suino has studied and practiced martial arts for more than fifteen years, including four years in Japan studying with world renowned sword master Katsuo Yamaguchi, 9th dan. Mr. Suino was four-time all-Kanto sword forms champion at his rank level and represented his region in the national tournament in 1991, only the second non-Japanese ever to do so. He currently teaches iaido and other traditonal martial arts in Michigan.

Contents

Preface
Acknowledgments
How to Use This Book
Introduciton
What is Iaido?
Why Practice Iaido?
A Brief History Of Japanese Swordsmanship
The Evolution of Eishin-Ryu Iaido
What You Need to Practice Iaido
About the Japanese Sword
How to Wear the Obi and Hakama
Etiquette and the Code of the Samurai
Basic Techniques
How to Bow
Fundamentals of Practice
How to Read the Illustrations
Seated set
Drawing Methods Set
The Intermediate and Advanced Practitioner
Intermediate and Advanced Pracitce
The Samurai Sitting Method
Eye Contact, Focus, and Dignity
Intermediate Techniques
Secret Forms, Drawing Methods Set
Half-Seated Set
Secret Forms, Standing Set
Advanced Techniques
Secret Forms, Seated Set
Secret Forms, Extra set
Sword Methods
Glossary
Bibliographiy
Index

A clear, wonderful book that lists, describes, explains, illustrates and shows the kanji for all pertinent sword waza in the system. ( )