How to Hold a Sai
A sai is an ancient weapon, originating in Okinawa. Descended from a common farm implement, it was used to great effect against invading warriors carrying swords. A sai, when held and used properly, can be used to block, then trap an incoming sword blade. After trapping the sword blade, you can then proceed to other techniques, such as capturing the sword for your own use, or breaking the blade and rendering it useless.
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Instructions
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How to Hold a Sai
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1
Use a measuring tape to measure the length of your forearm. You should measure from your wrist to your elbow, using the inside of your arm. Using a flexible measuring tape, not a metal tape measure, will allow you the most accurate measurement.
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2
Using a standard combat grip on a sai is easy, but you have to choose a pair of sai that are sized to fit your individual body size. The central arm of the sai should equal the length from your wrist to your elbow. Most dealers offer sai of many different sizes.
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3
Choose the material that you'll be using once you have the proper size. Sai are available in stainless steel with a mirror finish, a brushed chrome finish or in a coated metal. The coated metal sai are typically black in color. It is recommended that you first use "training sai" or sai that are made of hard rubber. This will eliminate the possibility of injuring yourself during while learning the basics.
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4
Clasp your hand around the handle, like holding a flashlight. The pointed end of the sai should be pointing straight up, and the top of your hand should be flush against the metal cross guards of the sai. This will allow you the greatest mobility and most secure grip while you're training.
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5
Wrap your index finger around the crossguard. The long, central arm of the sai should protrude from between your thumb and index finger. The tip of your index finger should be touching your thumb.
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Tips & Warnings
There are several different acceptable grips when using a sai. This is a standard combat grip, and will serve you well in learning more advanced techniques.
While sai are not at all sharp, the are very pointed, and can easily go through a foot.
