Aikido Weapons Classes: the Bokken, Jo and Tanto (wooden sword, staff and knife, respectively)

Aikido has its technical roots in the subtle grappling arts of Aiki-Jujitsu together with the elegant forms of Kenjitsu and Jodo, or combat sword and staff. We study traditional Japanese solo sword and staff forms, Aikido weapons disarming techniques and interactive weapons work such as those practiced by the samurai warriors of the past. Our test requirements include extensive work with Kumitachi (sword-on-sword), Kumijo (staff-on-staff) and knife disarming. We also practice other combinations of weapons, such as staff or knife with sword, as well as two-sword techniques. Throughout our goal is to embody basic principles of Aiki, or unity.

At Redlands Aikikai we practice weapons fairly frequently: every month, six of the Beginners (Level I) and Intermediate (Level II) classes are devoted to weapons (click here for the Weapons Level I and II Schedule), and we have advanced weapons classes twice a week. We also do weapons workshops, and weapons are usually featured as aspects of our seminars.

Shown above left is a photograph of the founder in his eighties, demonstrating a staff-disarm. Note the dynamic, completely enveloping energy with which he has evaded the attack and entered: after the attacker has committed to his strike, yet before the attacker can finish (note the attacker's feet). One hand of the founder's hands holds a metal fan that was in his belt: this is a weapon that takes the attacker's mind as it sweeps across his throat, as well as a means of connecting with the space and energy surrounding both participants. The founder's other hand (not seen) holds the staff and through this contact the attacker can be thrown, with the staff staying safely in the founder's hand.