As part of the effort to increase our understanding of the empty hand art of Kanzen Gojuryu Karatedo, the Kenshin Karate School is proud to announce the formal introduction of kobudo (weapons training) into our curriculum. Weapons training will be introduced to students in the Advanced Youth class and/or to students holding the rank of Green Belt and above. The training will take place during the normal class schedule. Safety is of the utmost importance and all students will be required to follow specific rules and responsibilities with regard to the kobudo training program. Each week, one day will be set aside for weapons training and will be so indicated on the calendars handed out in class and made available on our web site. Students will be responsible for bringing their weapons on the appropriate day.

For the most part, the training will be based in the traditional style of Okinawan Kobudo and will include elements of kihon, kata, and kumite. Weapons to be taught will include:

Bo
Tonfa
Nunchaku
Sai
Kama

Twelve weeks of classes will be taught in each weapon. Thereafter, a rotation schedule will be established. We hope to have some outside instructors teach intensive seminars at a later date and perhaps will also seek rank certification at some point.

For now, the bo (or staff) will be our first weapon. For the younger students, the staff should consist of a 1" wooden dowel cut to a 5' length. Older students should use a 1 1/2" dowel cut to 6' length. These bo's should be lightly sanded with the ends gently rounded and a light coating of oil (linseed, walnut, or other) applied to prevent cracking. Several will be available at the dojo for purchase. For the more serious student, commercially made and manufactured bo staffs will also be available for purchase at the dojo. Students are to put their name on their weapons with permanent marker.

If you have any questions, please ask Renshi or one of the black belts.