1. Kendo, Kumdo and Iaido – What is the difference?

Kendo is the way of the sword, Japanese fencing. Kendoka wear armour protecting the head, throat, wrists and abdomen; these are the only legal targets. The split-bamboo practice sword they use is called a shinai.

Kumdo is the Korean pronunciation of kendo. Kendo was introduced to Korea by the Japanese during the occupation. After the Japanese left, the Koreans continued practicing using slightly different gear and new terminology.

Iaido is the art of drawing and attacking with a sword. Iaido is mostly performed solo as a series of kata, executing varied techniques against single or multiple imaginary opponents. Each kata begins and ends with the sword sheathed.

2. What sorts of weapons are used for practice?

The usual weapons used in Kumdo and Iaido are bokken, or wooden sword usually constructed of white Japanese oak and other exotic hardwoods. They are curved in length and sized like a katana. Even the handle is about the same length and oval shaped. Iaido use Iaito or Mogito which is dull katana.

3. Will I hurt myself practicing Kumdo and Iaido?

Kumdo and Iaido probably have a lower rate of injury than most martial arts. Neither sword style practisioner rarely experiences injuries worse than a bruise, although there are exceptions of course.

Iaidoka have to be extremely careful, especially with shinken (sharp swords), but in general don't get injured very often. Both kumdo and iaido are subject to the usual range of strains and soreness to be expected in any sport.

4. What type of uniform is used for practice?

The top is called a Keiko-gi and is very similar to the top of the judo uniform, only longer. The bottom is called a Hakama. It is a pleated, divided skirt generally made of cotton or cotton-poly blend.

Hakama and Keiko-gi are robust versions of the formal samurai clothing of the 18th and 19th centuries. Kumdo or Iaido training is meant to be more than just physical training and the choice of clothes emphasises this. Moreover, the clothes add grace and dignity to an already graceful and dignified art.