Step into the World of Iaido and Jodo
3-Month Course for Enthusiasts
What You Will Learn and Experience
Iaido:
- Traditional Japanese sword-drawing art – responding to an attack and drawing the sword in one smooth, continuous motion.
- Development of focus and precision – training enhances balance, discipline, and control of movement.
- Study of forms (kata) – emphasis on correct posture, stance, and technique.
- Fluid and controlled movements – each movement has a clear beginning, flow, and completion.
- Space for inner development – iaido encourages self-reflection, mental calm, and attention to detail.
- A safe introduction to training – practice is done with a wooden sword (bokken) and a plastic scabbard (saya).
- Individual practice – training is performed independently, without direct contact with an opponent.
Jodo:
- The art of the stick (jo) – defense techniques and responses against sword attacks.
- Improved coordination and timing – emphasis on fluidity, precise timing, and controlled movement.
- Understanding distance and strategy – working with space, rhythm, and reacting to a partner.
- Integration of technique and concentration – movement, technique, and mental focus come together as a complete system.
- Solo and paired practice – gradual progression toward the study of forms (kata).
- Direct connection to iaido – skills developed through sword training are immediately applied in paired practice.
Getting Ready for Your First Training – What to Bring
- Comfortable sportswear – choose clothing that allows free and unrestricted movement.
- No shoes required – training is done barefoot in a clean and safe dojo environment.
- A water bottle – so you can stay hydrated throughout the training.
- No weapons needed – wooden weapons (bokken and jo) will be provided free of charge.
- An open mind and a good mood – patience, respect, and a smile are always welcome
- Feel free to bring company – you’re welcome to invite a friend or a family member to join you.
Who is this course designed for
- Ages 15 and up – The course is open to teenagers and adults alike. It is never too late to begin, whether you are 40, 50, or even 60 years old.
- Complete beginners – Ideal for those who wish to discover some of the most traditional Japanese martial arts.
- People without prior sports experience – Athletic talent is not required; patience and perseverance are all you need.
- Experienced athletes – Suitable for those looking to explore something new and unconventional.
- Individuals with health limitations (e.g. musculoskeletal issues, low fitness level, or post-injury) – Training can be adapted to individual abilities and needs.
- Anyone seeking time for themselves – After a demanding day, this practice offers space for personal growth, calm, and focused attention.
Expectations
What to expect and what you’ll gain:
- Health benefits – The training involves large, flowing movements that improve flexibility, posture, and coordination.
- Full-body engagement – You’ll activate muscles that are rarely used in everyday movements.
- Connection to Japanese culture – Learn more about Japan, its traditions, and acquire basic Japanese terminology.
- Development of focus, attention, and patience – Training fosters inner balance, mental calm, and enhances your ability to concentrate on movements and the present moment.
- Experience with rhythm and discipline – Discover the principles of traditional Japanese martial arts, including their ethics and etiquette.
- Guidance from experienced teachers – Trainings are led by highly skilled instructors with the highest technical ranks in Slovakia.
What not to expect – the reality of training:
- You won’t become a master in 3 months – Learning is a gradual process; movements are built step by step, not overnight.
- Practice is essential – No AI or other technology can do the work for you
- Perfection won’t come immediately – Everyone starts from the basics, and mistakes are a natural part of learning.
- Progress requires consistency – Training demands patience and regular participation.
- You won’t understand everything at the first class or even the first month – Mastery of techniques and principles develops gradually.
- It’s not just physical exercise – Training also involves mental discipline, self-reflection, and managing your own ego.
Why 3 months?
- 1st month – Getting familiar with the basics:
You will learn the basic techniques, proper posture, and movement, and at the same time, comfortably get acquainted with the training environment. This month is about mastering the first steps and gaining confidence that anyone can get started. - 2nd month – Connecting techniques and practical training
You will start combining the techniques you’ve learned and practice performing them smoothly. At the same time, paired exercises will begin, allowing you to test the techniques in practice. You will improve your coordination, rhythm, and feel your skills genuinely developing. - 3rd month – Refinement and confidence:
You will refine the skills you’ve acquired, gain even better control over your movements, and experience real progress along with growing confidence. You will see how far you’ve come and what you’ve accomplished. - Clear decision on continuing:
After 3 months, you will have real training experience and feel your progress. You will gain confidence in whether iaido and jodo truly excite you, and you’ll be ready to make a decision about continuing, based on your own experience.
Course details
Training Sessions – Schedule & Location:
- Days and Time: Every Monday and Wednesday, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Location: A large school hall with plenty of space and a beautiful wooden floor, ideal for movement and practice
- Safe and Comfortable Environment: Designed to ensure smooth and safe training for all participants
- Parking is available directly in front of the school: is free of charge
Price and Registration:
- Course Fee: €55 for the full 3-month course
- Registration & Questions: Please contact our teacher Marián Bartko
- The course is open year-round: you can sign up at any time and start training
What’s next after the course?
- Discover your interest – After 3 months, you’ll know if iaido and jodo truly excite you and if you want to continue.
- Decide on regular training – See if you want to dedicate more time to deeper study of traditional Japanese martial arts.
- Join our community – If you choose to continue, you can become part of our club (dojo).
- Build a solid foundation – Gain the basics of techniques, as well as understanding of budo ethics, etiquette, and philosophy, to support further study.
