AIKIDO
WEAPONS
合気武
The most commonly used weapons in Aikido training are the wooden sword (Bokken)木剣,, wooden staff (Jo) 杖, and wooden knife (Tanto)短刀. These weapons are used to enhance the practitioner's understanding and application of Aikido principles and techniques.
Bokken 木剣
The bokken is a wooden sword that resembles a katana, the traditional Japanese sword. It is used to simulate sword attacks and defenses in Aikido. By practicing with the bokken, practitioners learn proper footwork, timing, distance, and angles of attack and defense. It also helps develop concentration, focus, and control.
The Jo is a wooden staff about 4 feet long. It is used to practice techniques involving distance, timing, and fluid movements. The jo represents an opponent's staff or spear and is used to learn principles of balance, posture, and manipulation of energy. It also helps improve coordination, agility, and flexibility.
Tanto 短刀
The Tanto is a wooden knife that represents a short-bladed weapon. It is used to simulate close-quarters knife attacks and defenses. The practice with the tanto allows practitioners to learn techniques to neutralize and control an opponent armed with a knife. It helps develop precision, speed, and awareness.