Aikido Article 2

Aikido Weapons
The traditional practice weapons of Aikido are the Bokken and the Jo. The Bokken is a wooden sword fashioned to resemble the size and shape of the Japanese sword, known as a Katana. It allows sword practice without the inherent dangers of being cut, maimed or killed. There are many stories of expert swordsman using a bokken against a razor sharp katana when the purpose was to disarm or defeat but not to kill an opponent. The Jo is a wooden staff which is four feet in length. When used proficiently it can counter a sword attack. Its origin dates back to the feudal era in Japan where only soldiers and samurai were allowed to carry swords. Farmers and villagers who often came under attack had to find alternative ways to counter bladed weapons. Both the Bokken and the Jo can cause serious harm if used carelessly. Therefore, it is important to focus and be present in the moment when practicing. One single lapse of concentration can result in serious injury. Proficiency in the hand art of Aikido comes from proficiency in weapons, particularly the Japanese sword. The hand and body movements follow those of the sword and the sword teaches awareness and focus beyond the mere extension of the arm. Another important lesson taught by Aikido is that any encounter takes place between two people, not between a sword and open hands. To focus on the sword is to draw the sword to you and it is a certain path to destruction. It is the person carrying the sword who is the danger, so to focus on the person rather than the weapon is the path to survival, even though it carries inherent risks and survival is not guaranteed. Therefore disarming techniques are a feature of Aikido training. To be able to disarm but not harm an opponent is testament to the defenders own calmness, control and personal freedom. Bokken-tori is a form of practice where an unarmed defender learns to disarm an opponent attacking with a Bokken. At first, it is one of the scariest exercises in Aikido but it becomes easier with practice and has many benefits. It helps develop hand-eye coordination and promotes anticipation and awareness beyond the self. Over time, it instills calmness under pressure and helps control fear. Bokken Tori practice is a good training ground for decision making. When time is of the essence and a decision must be made, it requires

no more than to recall the image of the ancient Japanese swordsman raising his Katana high ready to strike. He is too close to run from. The situation must be dealt with and, as dangerous as it is, a decision must be made. Gary Weigh