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”Kobudo“ is the Japanese word for the study of
traditional weapons of the martial arts. The word means
”old martial art,“ as the study of traditional weapons
predates empty-hand karate. The traditional weapons
taught by KoSho Karate include Okinawan bo, sai, tonfa,
and nunchaku. Advanced students also learn kama and
eiku.
Kobudo class is held on Saturdays. When a student
earns their yellow belt in empty-hand karate, they may
request to begin studying weapons. Beginning students
learn basic technique and kata (choreographed solo
exercises). After students have learned to control the
weapon, they may do choreographed partner drills and
free sparring with foam weapons. For safety, any partner
drills with real weapons are prearranged. Contact is
weapon to weapon. No contact is made between the
real weapon and one's training partner.
Studying kobudo has several advantages. It builds
balance and coordination. It develops skills that can help
students use makeshift weapons in a self defense
situation. It builds greater upper body strength than
empty hand. It makes students better-rounded martial
artists. And it's a lot of fun.
Students are required to purchase their own weapons.
Beginning students will usually use off-the-rack
weapons. After a few years, students will often elect to
purchase custom weapons. We recommend Crane Mountain weapons.
We also do some chanbara. Chanbara is to weapons
what sparring is to empty hand. In other words,
chanbara is sport fighting with padded weapons.
Chanbara gear also allows us to practice weapons
applications with less risk of injury. If you're interested
in purchasing your own chanbara gear, check with
Sensei Laura.
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