Weapons training occupies a significant portion of the curriculum taught by traditional martial arts schools. While the scope and variety of weapons differs with each individual art, the methods of effectively attacking and defending with a weapon are similar and nearly always begin with practicing on a wooden training weapon. Whether you are dedicated to the traditional Kung Fu weapons of the kwon do, broadsword and monk spade, or are a student in the Japanese sword arts, the fundamental training techniques are the same. With practice, dedication and an eye for safety, practically anyone can learn to train with martial arts weapons.
Step 1
Designate a spacious outdoor or indoor area for practicing your martial arts weapon. Make sure the area is clear of any obstacles such as furniture or foliage and is isolated from pets or children.
Step 2
Adopt the basic defensive bo staff stance by placing your right foot 3 to 4 feet in front of your left foot with both heels in line. Position your right foot so that the toes point directly forward at an imaginary opponent while your left foot points at a 45-degree angle to your left. Grip the staff with both hands so that the end of the staff is just 2 inches shy of the ground and space out your hands until they are 2 to 3 feet apart.
Step 3
Perform the basic bo staff blocking sequence by lifting the weapon until it is raised horizontally just above your head. Place your hands on either end of the staff as far apart as you can comfortably reach and plant your left foot into the ground as if bracing for impact. When blocking with the bo staff, always remember to use the middle of the staff as the surface for absorbing incoming blows. Return to the defensive staff stance and position your weapon so that the staff is held at a vertical position. Rotate the staff to the left and right sides of your body as if blocking incoming attacks with the middle of the bo staff.
Step 4
Enter the offensive bo staff stance by shifting your weight so that 75 percent of your body weight rests on the front foot with your knee bent. Ensure that your knee does not extend further than your ankle. Quickly thrust the bo staff forward toward the midsection of your imaginary opponent by sliding your hands along the bo staff until they are gripping one end with your fists roughly 1 foot apart. Retract the weapon and continue practicing the thrust until you are confident in your attack.
Step 5
Return the bo staff and take up your bokken or wooden sword with both hands on the hilt, or handle, of the weapon. Place your left hand on the bottom of the sword handle with your right hand 2 to 3 inches above your left on the hilt. Enter the offensive bo staff stance and raise the wooden sword above your head as evenly as you can. Once you are ready, strike down with the sword using both hands while trying to cut a symmetrical line down the center of your imaginary opponent's body. Stop the sword immediately before it hits the ground and return it to the position behind your head. Repeat the technique 50 to 100 times or until you feel confident in your mastery of the primary offensive sword cut.
Tips and Warnings
- For best results, locate a martial arts instructor or club that teaches the specific weapons art that you are interested. For students seeking to learn traditional Japanese fencing, a kendo, iaido or kenjutsu dojo may offer the added benefit of a live instructor's supervision.
- Consult your personal physician or doctor before engaging in any martial arts practice that is drastically different from your normal fitness levels. Always practice and execute your techniques safely and in a controlled environment and contact your doctor if you encounter any acute or lingering pain after practice.
Things You'll Need
- 6-foot bo staff
- Bokken or wooden sword
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