Even though Karate means “empty hand,” weapons are an integral part of training. Their use can double your strength, enhance your coordination, and make you a superior empty-handed fighter.

Weapons training offers a chance to work on dexterity, hand/eye coordination as well as focus, endurance and additional body conditioning. At Marinoble’s weapons training is a part of the total package.

KAMA (SICKLE)

History: In 1470, when traditional weapons were confiscated by the Japanese military, Okinawan commoners utilized the kama as a fighting blade, often attaching a chain to the base for greater reach. This longer weapon was known as a kusarigama.

BO (staff)

History: The Bo is one of the most readily available and easy to learn weapons known to man. The bo is one of the five weapons systematized by the early Okinawan developers of the style known as te (hand). In feudal Japan it was part of the bugei (early Japanese martial arts) and was used by samurai, priests, and commoners alike. Its sixfoot length made it an apt weapon against swordsmen, disarming the opponent while allowing the user to remain at a safe distance.

SAI

History: Present in Okinawan and other Asian weapon arsenals, the sai (pronged truncheon) was used to stab, block, trap and punch. Practitioners often carried a sai in each hand, and a “spare”‘ at the belt. The weapon could also be thrown.

TONFA

History: The tonfa (side-handle baton) was developed as a weapon by the Okinawans, specifically for use in conjunction with karate. Two tonfa were often used simultaneously, and were very efficient against armed asailants.

NUNCHAKU

History: Developed in the 17th century by Okinawans after the Japanese gained occupation of their land, the nunchaku (flail) was one of many harmless looking weapons implemented at the time. The two equal sections were originally held together by horsehair and could be used against armed or unarmed assailants.