I initially worked one-on-one with Lynette, the only other student that could make it today. We reviewed Standing Iai 1, 2 and 3. Tom was then able to join us for a half hour and he took over, continuing the review of Standing Iai 1 through 5, then working with me one-on-one on Standing Iai 6. During Standing Iai 3, I asked about the 180 turn and how high (or low) to jump. Tom stated that he felt a strong articulate jump was in order, rather than a low grounded jump. One application I mentioned in relation to this would be to evade a low sweep from a spear, staff, etc, though he did say that the jump should certainly not be too extreme.

In summary, Standing Iai 6 begins with a crouching temple block with hilt, rise and lift right knee, drawing and deflecting a spear to the right, stepping forward into right kendo stance with a head cut. Shift into right back stance and begin putting away sword, then draw with a pomel strike forward right right front stance, shift 180 to left stance and advance to right front stance with head cut. Place sword in crooked right arm and turn 180 counter-clockwise on right foot into right back stance. Flip and shake and put sword away.

I also asked another question of Hiroko’s regarding etiquette. At the beginning of a formal class, students first do a standing bow to the flag, then kneel and bow to their sensei, then last respect their sword.