Even though the term "karate" means "empty hands", most weapons were developed
to be extensions of those empty hands. Most techniques we learn can be modified to have a weapon in hand. Most of the common
weapons were first developed for the same reason Karate was developed; the common people needed to protect themselves. In
the late 1400's, ownership of weapons was prohibited. For this reason, most weapons had an everyday use. Farmers transformed
their work tools into weapons. Listed below are the various weapons taught in our program. We have also included a brief description
and possible origin of each weapon.
Bo/Staff- Because of its everyday
uses, the bo/staff was the most commonly used of all the Okinawan weapons. It was traditionally used to carry baskets, buckets
of water, piloting boats and something as simple as a walking stick. This weapon by definition is usually 6 feet in length.
Because of its length, this weapon gives the practitioner the greatest striking distance. It can be used for blocking and
striking. This weapon requires a sound knowledge of empty-hand techniques and solid stances.
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Other Weapons:Nunchaku,
Kamas, Sai, Sword, bokken
