Kobudo Tonfa

Introduction

Structure of syllabus

 

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Introduction

The Tonfa is one of the more popular weapons from Okinawan kobudo, having been adopted by many police forces as a weapon of law enforcement.

It was originally the handle of an agricultural grinder (or some say, a pump).

The tonfa is a very versatile weapon, lending itself to fast rotating movements as well as straight forward baton techniques.  It can be used to block and deflect downward thrusts from far more powerful weapons, such as the Bo.

 

 
   

Structure of the syllabus

 

 

 
   

1st Level

Tonfa Drill;
Sempo Bo Kata: Bo kata designed to be combined with Hitsuyo Sai, Tonfa or Kama katas to form a 2-person kata or embu.

 

 

 

 
     

2nd Level

Hitsuyo Tonfa kata: Sai (trident) form incorporating all of the essential techniques. Designed to be combined with Sempo Bo kata to form a 2-person kata or embu.

 

 

 
     

3rd Level

Tonfa Hamahiga: A traditional form for this unusual weapon designed by the master Hamahiga.