List of Bo (Staff) Techniques

This section provides instructions for various Bo (staff) techniques (i.e. spins, strikes, blocks, etc.). These instructions will help beginning martial artists learn how to use a Bo for demonstrations, self-defense and sparring. These Bo techniques (i.e. spins, strikes & blocks) are also used in Bo kata. Many different martial arts including training with wooden staffs (i.e. BoJo or Jang Bong) as part of their curriculum. These martial arts styles include AikidoBojutsuHapkidoKarateKung FuTaekwondo, etc.

The Bo (staff) is an Okinawan (Japan) martial arts weapon. This staff is basically a long wooden pole traditionally made of oak and is roughly 6 feet in length. However, for demonstrations, a Bo is usually a lightweight metal staff (lighter weight for faster spins, etc.). Historically, wooden staffs were common tools used by martial artists because they were cheap & readily available, served as walking/hiking aids, were not seen as threatening weapons (unlike swords and spears) etc. Moreover, their length allowed them to successfully defend against bandits armed with shorter weapons (i.e. knives or clubs). In addition, given the weight of a wooden staff, training with this martial arts tool improved a martial artist’s upper body strength and overall physical conditioning.

The information on these pages and videos are meant to reinforce and supplement the instruction given at your martial arts classes. To properly understand these techniques, you need to learn them from a martial arts instructor who can provide you with an in-depth explanation of the technique, help correct your mistakes, answer your questions and detail how the technique should be utilized.

All martial arts techniques should only be practiced under the supervision of a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. In addition, all martial arts techniques should be used safely and responsibly.

Bo – Examples of Spins – Most of these pages have tutorial videos, etc.

Bo – Examples of Strikes – Most of these pages have tutorial videos, etc.

Bo – Examples of Blocks – Most of these pages have tutorial videos, etc.

Related Wiki Sections

  • Bo Katas – Videos and/or instructions for a wide range of Bo katas.

Bo Demonstration

Bo staff

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