History and Technique: Our Iaido program is currently offering instruction in Muso Shinden Ryu iaido in affiliation with the San Shin Kai. This style of iaido was created in Japan by Jinsuke Shigenobu in the 16th century. The system was codified by Master Nakayama Hakudo (1869-1958), and passed on to Takeshi Mitsuzaka Sensei. The current head of the North American San Shin Kai is Shihan Roger Wehrhahn. The Martial Arts Complex has been very lucky to have Shihan Wehrhahn come and give several seminars at our Pawtucket dojo.  The iaido training at the Martial Arts Complex is based on mastering the precise movements necessary to simultaneously draw and cut with the sword. Students learn these movements through kata, or forms. In addition to learning kata, students are able to practice their sword techniques through sparring with bokuto (wooden swords), as well as tameshigiri, or cutting drills with a live sword. Through constant practice and mastery of sword techniques, the student learns to focus the mind and achieve a state of relaxation. In iaido practice, the ultimate goal is not combat, but instead a superior state of calm, focus, and "no-mind." Training is designed to polish the soul, as well as the technique of the practicioner.

Instructor Profile: The iaido/iaijutsu program at the Martial Arts Complex is taught by George Kasper. George has been involved in the martial arts since 1976. In addition to being a Rhode Island state affiliate of the North American San Shin Kai, George has studied Kosho Ryu iaido and kenjutsu under Sensei Michael Brown. He is also currently studying the art of kyudo under Kanjuro Shibata, XX, sensei, and is a Level-II archery instructor under the U.S. Archery Association. In addition to iaido and kyudo, George has studied kenpo karate and kickboxing, aikido, and judo. George also runs the archery program at the Martial Arts Complex.