Thursday 8 November 2012

The History of The Bo

Martial artists use a wide array of weapons. Many of them are weapons of choice which are unaligned with a specific form of fighting. Others have direct lines to the techniques being used. The nunchaku, sometimes known as a nunchuk, is a well-liked device. Escrima sticks and kamas, with their scythe like blades, are other considerably well-known fighting instruments.

The origins of the Bo, a stick like piece of equipment, go back almost as far as history itself.

One of the primary martial arts styles is the Art of the Empty Hand. This style concentrates ontactics which do not depend upon weaponry. The limbs are regarded as sufficient to fend off and or respond to any sort of assault. Bojutsu incorporates this attitude with a staff called the Bo. This device is considered part of the body of the individual who holds it. Thus, it is thought of asincreased length to the arm of its user, rather than as just a stick for fighting.
 Experts of Bojutsu disagree about where the weapon which is symbolic of their sport originated. A few insist it was first made use of in mainland China. Other practitioners state that the island of Okinawa was the birthplace of the staff. The precise specifications of the stick also vary.

In fact, few things about The Origins of the Bo can be pinned down with guarantee. In all probability it derived from the ancient weapons which were used as defence throughout Parts of Asia. The staff is commonly about six feet long, although it does not have any rigid dimensions. Previously it may have been thicker and rounder than latest renditions. The current appliance generally measures a little less than two inches in width with a comparable circumference.

The precise make up of a fighting stick is determined by the martial artist who carries it. Some prefer a staff that does not have any flex to it when it hits an opponent. Others desire a weapon which has more flexibility. To achieve the preferred bend, various woods are widely-used in production. The majority are made of hard woods; however bamboo appliances suit many individuals.

The innocuous look of the weapon is due to its principal use. It served a dual purpose. Peasants placed the stick across their shoulders and counter balanced substantial loads on each side. Thus, its true function was hidden from the overseers and members of the military who might take the staff away from them.

Techniques produced for the usage of the staff based on both the philosophy of Bojutsu and the ways it was used by peasants. Following the precepts of the Art of the Empty Hand, the staff was used as an extended element of the arm. Movements were fluid and reminiscent of the limbs themselves. Likewise, the grip used embodied the quick change in function from labour saving devise to dangerous weapon.

Throughout the generations, numerous weapons have evolved for use in the martial arts. Many promote their combative purposes. The Origins of the Bo hide its menace until the staff is positioned in the hands of a competent Bojutsu practitioner.


At The UKMA Shop we stock a wide range of Martial Arts Weapons specific for use within Karate.

Check out our Bo Selection.

Hardwood Bo
Foam Bo

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