Bojutsu is a traditional Japanese martial art that focuses on the use of bojū (棒術), which is a long stick measuring around 1.2 to 2 meters. In bojutsu, training focuses on self-defense and attack techniques using sticks, involving various types of punches, kicks, blocks, and defensive movements. As a martial art that has existed since the feudal era of Japan, bojutsu teaches physical strength, discipline, and coordination.
If you are interested in learning bojutsu, here are the basic training steps that can help you understand and master this martial art with long sticks.
1. Preparation Before Training
Before starting bojutsu training, it is important to prepare yourself well so that the training runs effectively and safely.
a. Warming up
Just like other physical exercises, warming up is a very important part of bojutsu. Warming up helps prevent muscle and joint injuries, and prepares the body for more intensive movements. Here are some warm-up movements that can be done:
Neck and shoulder rotation: To loosen the neck and shoulder muscles, do slow rotation movements for 30 seconds to the left and right. Kakek Merah
Stretching: Do stretches to loosen the muscles of the upper and lower body, such as stretching the arms, thighs, and hips.
Brisk walking or light jogging: This activity can help increase blood circulation and prepare the body for more intense activities.
b. Prepare Equipment
Wear comfortable training clothes, such as a t-shirt and sweatpants. If you already have a training stick (bojū), make sure the stick is not too heavy and comfortable to use. Usually, bojū are made of light but strong wood, such as birch or oak.
2. Mastering the Basic Positions in Bojutsu
Before starting with attack and defense techniques, it is important to master the basic positions or stances in bojutsu. This position is the basis of every movement in bojutsu.
a. Sanchin Dachi Position (三戦立ち)
This position is a basic position used to maintain balance and be ready to move forward or backward. You should stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your weight evenly distributed across both feet.
b. Chudan No Kamae Position (中段の構え)
This is a body position often used in bojutsu. In this position, the stick is held with both hands and placed in front of the body in a horizontal position at chest height. This position gives the impression of being ready to attack and defend.
c. Jodan No Kamae Position (上段の構え)
This position is used to attack with an overhead punch. The stick is raised above the head, with the hands holding it tightly, ready to bring down a sharp attack towards the opponent.
3. Basic Bojutsu Techniques
After mastering the basic positions, the next step is to practice with the basic techniques used in bojutsu.
a. Punch (Men uchi)
A punch is one of the basic attack techniques in bojutsu. To perform a men uchi punch, hold the stick with both hands, and with the correct body position, strike the stick vertically towards the opponent's head. This technique is used to attack the upper body of the opponent.
b. Side Punch (Kesa giri)
A kesa giri punch is a diagonal attack from top to bottom that is used to attack the side of the opponent's body. This movement requires the stick to be struck with sufficient force, resulting in an effective diagonal attack.
c. Kick (Ashi barai)
In addition to stick techniques, bojutsu also involves kicks to maintain distance or attack. One of the most commonly used kicks is the ashi barai, which is a side kick performed with the back leg. This kick can be used to distance the opponent or open up space for the next attack.
d. Block (Uke waza)
Blocks are very important in bojutsu to protect yourself from attacks from the opponent. One of the basic block techniques is the jodan uke, where the stick is used to block attacks coming from above or the side. This block technique is done with strong and directed hand movements so that the stick can effectively stop the opponent's attack.
e. Foot Attack (Atemi)
In bojutsu, attacks on the opponent's body using the feet are also very important, especially in maintaining distance. This technique involves pressing with the tip of the foot or the middle of the foot to press the opponent's vital points, such as the stomach or chest.
4. Bojutsu Training with a Partner
Bojutsu also involves training with a partner to hone the ability to defend and attack directly. One of the basic exercises is kumite bojutsu, which is sparring or fighting using sticks. During training with a partner, it is important to remember a few things: