Iaido literally means "the way of mental presence and immediate response."  It is a form-based martial art practicing the techniques of drawing, cutting, and re-sheathing the katana, the curved Japanese long sword. Although incorporating a number of different actions, Iaido forms emphasize the combination of drawing the sword with striking one's assailant.  While the martial application of this skill is not a part of modern society, the mental and physical qualities it cultivates (calm presence of mind; a relaxed, supple, and balanced body) are powerfully relevant to everyday life.

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Instructor

Samuel Kanner is yondan (4th degree black belt)

in Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido. He began his Iaido

training with the late Marion Taylor, godan (5th

degree black belt) in 2004. A practitioner of

several martial arts, Samuel is Director of

Martial Arts at Hampshire College.

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Schedule

Monday, 7:30-8:45pm

Wednesday, 7:30-8:45pm

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Dues

Adults: $50/month

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Students:  $30/month

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Aikido of Amherst Members:  $40/month

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Contact

If you are interested in Iaido practice, please contact Samuel Kanner at samuel.kanner@gmail.com