How to Use a Bo

The bo may be the most practical of the martial arts weapons because it can be found almost anywhere as part of brooms, rakes and other everyday objects. Using a bo is fairly intuitive, especially if you know the secret of martial arts weapons. Following are steps explaining how to use a bo as part of martial arts training.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bo

1. Carry your bo vertically behind your right shoulder, holding it with your right hand at your hip so the bo doesn't touch the floor.

2. Move the bo to the ready position by raising it to a horizontal position, gripping it with your left hand in the palm up position, and then continuing the movement until the bo is again vertical, your left hand is at chin level and your right hand is at your hip. Both palms should face forward and the bo should be in front of your right shoulder.

3. Strike with the bo in the same way you would deliver a reverse punch. At the end of the technique, your right foot will be in front, your right fist will be out with the palm down and your left fist will be "chambered" at your side.

4. Perform blocks in the same way as you would without a bo. For example, a middle block will involve a sweeping motion with your right hand ending with the palm facing you at eye left and the left hand chambered at your side. High blocks will be slightly different because your left hand will be in position to hold the bo in front of your body.

5. Remember that the bo has two striking surfaces. After performing a strike with a bo, pivot it so the other end strikes your opponent in an uppercut. Your right hand should be at your shoulder. Also practice pivoting the bo so the other end strikes from the side.

6. Poke your opponent with your bo by holding it horizontally, pulling back and then shoving the bo forward quickly into your opponent's midsection.

7. Practice your techniques on the other side of your body.

8. Adjust your grip on your bo to maximize the techniques you've mastered. For instance, to get more range in a strike, move your hands back on the bo. For blocks, move your hands up to bring your opponent closer.

Tips & Warnings

• The secret to using martial arts weapons is to perform movements with a weapon in the same way you would do them empty-handed.
• As with all martial arts weapons, the bo is not meant for use in "real life" fights. It is a training weapon to be used to further your martial arts skills. Opponents should be imaginary or training partners whom you will not actually strike.
• Never hold your bo like a baseball bat and swing it at your opponent. This kind of strike is slow, and your opponent will be able to avoid it. It also unbalances you, making you vulnerable.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• Find informative videos of bo kata on Technorati.