Weapons training is only taught to students who enrol on the Leadership Programme

In modern world self-protection, the need for weapon defence and weapons training is a reality. Whether confronted by an attacker wielding a knife or stick, or teaching our students how to properly defend themselves with these weapons, Family Martial Arts gives the student the knowledge needed to survive.

The physical conditioning that weapons offer martial art stylists has increased their popularity in recent years, and people are eager to learn more about their history and current applications.

Following is a list of weapons found in our training.

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.

Traditional use: The nunchaku was originally an agricultural tool used for threshing grain. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various stances and techniques. The sticks could be used for spearing or striking, and the chain could choke, block, or trap.

Current use: The nunchaku is a popular weapon for demonstrations. It is also used as a weapon of self-defence by karate stylists and some law enforcement agencies.

Knife Defence (over 16s only)

The knife training will teach you how real world attackers use this weapon, how they set up their victims and how to not become a victim yourself. We feel this gives you your best chance to survive or avoid a knife attack. You will learn how to effectively 'read' an attacker and deal with life threatening situations. You will also learn how to use the knife yourself, in defence of your own life or your family's lives.

Bo (staff)

History: The bo is one of the five weapons systematized by the early 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 six foot length made it an apt weapon against swordsmen, disarming the opponent while allowing the user to remain at a safe distance.

Traditional use: The bo evolved from poles balanced across the shoulders to carry water or other loads. As a fighting instrument, it allowed blocking and striking against a range of weapons.

Current use: Now part of the budo (martial ways), the bo is still used in performance. Physical conditioning with the bo improves balance and upper-body strength.

Escrima / Kali

Escrima/Kali is a beautiful martial art that originated in the Philippines. It is the national sport of the Philippines, and has a very long history of combat effectiveness. One difference from other martial arts is that the student is taught to train with weapons from the very start, rather than beginning with empty-hands training. The Filipino Martial Arts ingrain an interrelationship between empty-hand skills and weapons, and because of this philosophy, Escrima is widely recognised in the martial arts community for its extreme practicality and effectiveness.

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.

Traditional use: The kama was originally used for cutting grass. In close range fighting, the sickle could be used to trap an opponent's weapon, or for striking.

Current use: The kama is most commonly used in forms competition and demonstrations. The forms include circular movements which improve blocking and countering techniques.

Katana (traditional Japanese sword)

History: Developed after the bokken, the katana was the favoured weapon of the samurai warriors and the most widely used Japanese sword. Drawn in a "sky-to-ground" manner, it was worn in the belt on the left side, edge upward.

Traditional use: Employed on foot or horseback as a thrusting weapon the katana was used in battle, competition and in ritual deaths.

Current use: The katana is now primarily a popular weapon for competition and demonstrations.

Bokken (wooden sword)

History: The bokken was a popular samurai training sword because it was safer and less expensive than a "live" blade. When used in competition it could be fatal, and samurai would often keep a bokken nearby while they slept, so intruders could be captured without spilling blood within the house.

Traditional use: The bokken was primarily used to practice blocking and entering techniques.

Current use: The bokken is still used in place of the katana (sword) for training, competition, and demonstrations.

Weapons training is only taught to students who enrol on the Leadership Programme