Iaido is the art of drawing, cutting and re-sheathing with the Japanese sword. The art is practiced by performing various preset movements against imaginary opponents (kata or waza). No contact is made with other students and most of the motions are slow and controlled. Iaido is performed with either wooden or unsharpened metal swords.

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Jodo is a martial art that teaches defense against a sword using the Japanese short staff. In this class, there is some contact between the staff and sword, but contact is orchestrated in kata.

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Emphasis in both arts is placed on improving concentration while also improving strength, balance and posture. Improving control of body movement is also an important benefit. The arts are also considered by some to be a form of moving meditation.