Traditional Okinawan weapons were whatever was close at hand during daily life. The same concepts apply today when learning how to extend the reach and power of your bare hands.

With his lifetime of experience, and over 40 years as an instructor of martial arts and Japanese weaponry, Sensei Shiroma can teach you the effective and practical techniques behind traditional weapons such as the Rokushaku Bo (six foot stick), the Katana (sword), Nunchaku (flail), Tanto (knife) and Tan Bo (two foot sticks).

Katana

Commonly referred to as a “samurai sword, the Katana is characterized by its distinctive appearance: a curved, slender, single edged blade, circular or squared guard, and long grip to accommodate two hands.

Rokushaku Bo

Rokushaku Bo, or six foot staff, is traditionally made from red or white oak and is one of the earliest of all Okinawan weapons. The Bo considered the ‘king’ of the Okinawa weapons since both it’s strengths, and it’s weaknesses can be used against your opponent.

Tan Bo

A close cousin of the Rokushaku, the Tan Bo, or two foot stick, are often used in pairs. The power of the Tan Bo comes from the users elbow and shoulder apposed to manipulation through the wrist. With a focus on both speed and accuracy, virtually every part of the target can be hit with this weapon.

Numchaku

Nunchaku are composed of two sections of wood connected by a cord or chain. Whirled around using the hardened wood handles for blunt force attach, the Nunchaku can also be used as an effective means of immobilize or disarm your opponent.

Nunchucks training has been noted to increase hand speed, correct posture, and condition the hands of the practitioner so it makes a useful training weapon.

Tanto

The Tanto is a common Japanese single- or double-edged knife or dagger with a blade length between 6-12 inches. The Tanto is used primarily as a stabbing weapon, but the edge can be used for slashing as well