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Dojo that are affiliated with the ZNKR, generally begin practice with these 12 forms (形Kata) reach 2nd Dan before learning 田宮神剣流居合術 Tamiya Shinken Ryu Iaijutsu that may also be included in their curriculum.

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​​12 Forms of ZNKR Iaido:

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• Mae (前). Front. Commencing from a kneeling position, forestalling a frontal attack.

• Ushiro (後ろ). Rear. Commencing from a kneeling position, forestalling an attack from the rear.

• Ukenagashi (受け流し) Receive, Parry and Cut. Commencing from a kneeling position, parrying an attack from the left.

• Tsuka-ate (柄当て). Striking with the Hilt. Commencing from a raised knee, seated position, forestalling two attackers, front and rear.

• Kesagiri (袈裟切り). Diagonal Cut. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling an approaching attacker.

• Morote-tsuki (諸手突き). Two-Hand Thrust. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling three approaching attackers, two in front and one behind.

• Sanpogiri (三方切り). Three Direction Cut. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling three approaching attackers, one each to the right, left and front.

• Ganmen-ate (顔面当て). Hit to the Face. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling two approaching attackers, front and rear.

• Soete-tsuki (添え手突き). Joined Hand Thrust. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling an attack from the left.

• Shihogiri (四方切り). Four Direction Cutting. Commencing from a standing position, forestalling four approaching attackers.

• Sogiri (総切り). Complete Cuts. Five different and complete cuts. Commencing from a standing position.

• Nukiuchi (抜き打ち). Sudden Draw. Avoid, then respond to an attack from the front. Commencing from a standing position.