Practitioners train in the Mugai Ryu style of iaido. It is a straight forward, combat oriented style that was developed in the late 1600s. "Mugai" is translated as "nothing on the outside." "Ryu" is translated as school or style. Every training session begins with basic sword cutting, thrusting and blocking techniques. Kata, which combine the basic techniques, are then practiced. These kata are prearranged routines that are unique to the style. Training also includes performance of fighting routines with a partner. Sometimes referred to as "kumi tachi," these are done to assimilate actual sword-against-sword fighting situations. Beginning students utilize a wooden sword, called a "bokuto." More advanced students use an "iaito," which is a steel or alloy blade that has the look and shape of a live blade, but is not sharpened. At the sole discretion of the head instructor, a practitioner may use a sharpened steel sword in class after reaching the rank of sandan and thirty years of age.