Welcome to the Iaikai Dojo website.  We practice traditional Japanese sword techniques .  These techniques, whether called iaido or iaijutsu, are descended from the fighting arts of the samurai, who ruled Japan from 1603-1868.  Sword fighting techniques evolved as a means of personal combat rather than for use on the battlefield, and flourished from the end of the 16th century.  As Japan became a peaceful, unified country, rather than abandon these techniques, the samurai decided to incorporate ethical, aesthetic and philosophical aspects to their practice.  The result, iai (whether -do or -jutsu) melds practical techniques and applications to a sense of meditative mindfulness,  ethical behavior , and graceful movement. It is the aim of the Iaikai Dojo to continue this tradition.   Please see the Curriculum Page for an outline of our practice. 

Classes

Classes are ongoing and open to students at all levels.  Beginners are welcome!

Mondays at The Arts Cure Center 

Classes are held on Mondays, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at The Arts Cure Center, 33-24 Northern Boulevard, 3rd Floor, Long Island City (Queens), NY  11101.  To get there, take the R or V train to the 36th St. station in Queens and get off at the 34th Street end of the platform.  Visitors are welcome, but please let us know in advance by contacting the instructor, Deborah Klens-Bigman, at  deborah.klensbigman@gmail.com.   

Monday Fees 

The fee is $60 per month with discounts available to full-time students.  Fees cover rent for the dojo space and help to finance special projects undertaken with the consent of the members.  The instructor does not get paid to teach.  

Wednesdays at LaGuardia Community College

Members are also invited to take part in the practice offered through the Fitness and Recreation Program at LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City.   The sessions are held on Wednesdays at 5:30pm.  LaGuardia students take part for free.  Non-student participants pay a per-class fee or can buy an activities card.  For more information, please go to their website: www.lagcc.cuny.edu.    

Equipment

New members should wear loose clothing and knee pads.  Equipment is provided for beginner students.  Eventually, members should buy their own equipment (knee pads are highly recommended), keikogi (top), hakama (loose, pleated trousers), and an obi (belt).  Members should consult with the instructor in order to purchase the appropriate clothing and equipment.