The fundamentals and practical techniques of Ryukyu Kobudo Sai and Tonfa

Learn the weapons systems of Okinawan martial arts!

 Ryukyu kobudo is a hand-weapon art that finds its origins in the ancient Ryukyu Islands (present-day Okinawa). It makes use of a variety of long and short weapons, typically including the bo (staff, also known as kon), sai (iron fork), tonfa (millstone handle), nunchaku (horse bridle), and nicho kama (two sickles). Each has unique features, making them unlike other weapons found around the world.

     Like karatedo, which is a more commonly known martial art from the Ryukyus, the origins and development of Ryukyu kobudo are unclear in terms of era and lineage. However, kobudo kata (forms) remain to this day. Ancient masters of budo (martial arts) developed kata as a convenient way to remember techniques that they had learned in combat and through their own training.

The weapon art of Ryukyu kobudo and the weaponless art of karatedo were originally two sides of the same coin. While karatedo became remarkably popular, however, Ryukyu kobudo remained relatively unknown but has been revitalized in Japan. 

In this video you will learn the basics of the sai and tonfa. 

1.  An explanation of Sai and Tonfa

2. The 10 basic stances of Sai and Tonfa

3. Sai
　How to hold
　　- Jun Te Mochi
　　- Gyaku Te Mochi
　　- Tokushu Mochi

How to change grips 

The 6 basic movements of Sai

Kata: Tsukenshitahaku no sai

Practical applications

4. Tonfa

　How to hold
　　- Jun Te Mochi
　　- Gyaku Te Mochi
　　- Tokushu Mochi

How to change grips

The 6 basic movements of Sai

Kata: Hamahiga no tonfa

Practical applications

　
Tonfa submissions and chokes

PROFILE

Kohji Katoh is a 3rd dan in Ryukyu Kobudo and also practices various martial arts such as judo, full contact karate and muay thai. Above all, he has a strong desire for karate and seeks the origin of karate by practicing Okinawa karate (Kamichi style) and Ryukyu Kobudo.

He is also active as an actor and is energetically working so that one day Okinawa Karate and Ryukyu Kobudo can be in films.