Hey guys, I'm looking for something new but i find myself lost, i also have a question about iaido.
(1) I am in the somewhat enviable position of having many schools to choose from and i'm having trouble narrowing it down. I am interested in arts where weapons are employed; also anything with an element of spirit/philosophy (i know this is hard on the mat) or deep personal development.
Particularly, i was wondering about the difference between Do/Koryu/Gendai Buddo. I was wondering if one can be viewed as better or more preferable to take (even just on a personal preference level). I understand that Gendai Buddo is a modern synthesis and tends to have a singular focus (Iaidio is apparently descended from a specialisation of a specialisation). Koryu is more of an evolution/preservation rather than a modern creation and involves many skills. I guess i get more bang for my buck this way and its more authentic but i'm sure there are downsides to this approach as well. I've noticed that even though these schools do teach many things, sometimes they seem to revert to a primary focus (say Katana) and teach the rest infrequently.
(2) Iaido. I'd love to hear from anyone who has done it. IF anyone has done it and quit, that too. You need to be a special kind of person to stay in an art, the reasons people leave probably more reflect the average experience. I know martial arts, in particular older style Koryu aren't meant to be fun but i wonder this of Iaido, is it at all dynamic or fun? On a cursory glance it looks like it could be quite boring, even after just a few months, i'm interested in what you think you get out of it.
(1) I am in the somewhat enviable position of having many schools to choose from and i'm having trouble narrowing it down. I am interested in arts where weapons are employed; also anything with an element of spirit/philosophy (i know this is hard on the mat) or deep personal development.
Particularly, i was wondering about the difference between Do/Koryu/Gendai Buddo. I was wondering if one can be viewed as better or more preferable to take (even just on a personal preference level). I understand that Gendai Buddo is a modern synthesis and tends to have a singular focus (Iaidio is apparently descended from a specialisation of a specialisation). Koryu is more of an evolution/preservation rather than a modern creation and involves many skills. I guess i get more bang for my buck this way and its more authentic but i'm sure there are downsides to this approach as well. I've noticed that even though these schools do teach many things, sometimes they seem to revert to a primary focus (say Katana) and teach the rest infrequently.
(2) Iaido. I'd love to hear from anyone who has done it. IF anyone has done it and quit, that too. You need to be a special kind of person to stay in an art, the reasons people leave probably more reflect the average experience. I know martial arts, in particular older style Koryu aren't meant to be fun but i wonder this of Iaido, is it at all dynamic or fun? On a cursory glance it looks like it could be quite boring, even after just a few months, i'm interested in what you think you get out of it.