Iaido is the
art of reacting to a surprise attack by counter attacking with a sword.
An in-depth reading of the Japanese characters for iaido is:
I = being, AI = harmony, DO = way . "The way of harmonising oneself in
action”.
The Iaidoka (a practitioner of iaido) wields a sword: not to control the
opponent, but to control himself. Iaido is mostly performed solo as a series
of Waza. The Iaidoka executes various techniques against single or multiple
imaginary opponents. Each Waza begins and ends with the sword sheathed. In
addition to sword 
( Prof.SIDDIQ MAHMOODI performing the Iaido kata on 26-11-2005 in
Hyderabad at the 1st kendo semminar)
technique, practitioners require imagination and concentration in order to
maintain the feeling of a real fight and to keep the Kata fresh. In order to
properly perform the waza, Iaidoka also learn posture and movement, grip,
and swing. Iaido is never practised in a free-sparring manner.
Iaidoka practice to prepare for a surprise attack, where an immediate,
efficient solution to the problem of aggression is necessary. Therefore, the
technique is highly refined. Every unnecessary movement is cut away.
Technique is simple and direct. The training method is aimed towards
development of the practitioner’s every mental and physical resources.
Iaido is an authentic martial art that proved its martial values in a time
of constant battle and warfare, that was preserved and passed on directly
from teacher to student over generations in an unbroken lineage for 450
years. Iaidoka developed the mind towards an ultimately peaceful,
harmonious, and active state ready to react and deal with any life
situation.