HISTORY
Most agree that the Bo staff originated in China, more specifically
Okinawa, during the time that Karate was being developed. During
this period, farmers used poles to balance heavy loads across
their shoulders or to navigate over the rough mountain terrain.
It is speculated that the bo derived from this pole. We do know
that the Bo was incorporated into the martial arts by the earliest
practitioners of Karate. The Bo is currently one of the most
common weapons learned in martial arts schools today.
BO CONSTRUCTION
The Bo can be quite diverse in design, size and material. Several
different types of Bo are:
TYPES OF BO DESIGN
Straight Bo - Usually the heaviest of all the different Bo
staves. The diameter of this Bo is the same from end to end.
Tapered Bo - Most common of the Bo staves. This Bo is lighter
than the straight Bo and tapers to a point on both ends.
Toothpick Bo - Cousin to the Tapered Bo, the toothpick Bo derives
its name from the tiny points on both ends.
Han Bo - Akin to the straight bo, the Han bo does not taper
at the ends, but measures only three feet in length.
SIZES
The traditional Bo staff measured between five and six feet long and was approximately
1" in diamter although the size actually varied based on the user of that
particular Bo. The staff was traditionally cut about 3" taller than the
user. Today, so many different Martial Arts have incorporated Bo staff training
into their curriculum that there really is no set standard for length. Diameters
vary as well, although it should not be so wide that you cannot make a tight
fist around the staff.
MATERIAL
There is a multitude of material that can be used to construct a Bo staff.
Some of the more common materials used today are Oak, Ashwood, Rattan and Graphite.
Each practitioner will develop a preference for the type of material they prefer,
as the look and feel of the Bo can be quite different depending on the materials
used.
TRAINING WITH THE BO
The heavier the Bo the more strength is required to wield it. Workouts with
heavy Bo staves are great for strength training. Competition Bo staves tend
to be lighter for a more impressive "whipping" action. One of the
most popular type of Competition Bo staves is the Graphite Bo.
In combat the Bo acts as an extension of one's own limbs. The Bo allows its
wielder the ability to attack from a great distance. It can be swung to deliver
a strong bludgeoning attack or sweep an enemy off of his feet. It can also
be thrust forward to a vulnerable target on your opponent and if the attack
is successful, the fight would quickly end. Due to the common shape
of a
Bo, it is an
extremely practical weapon to learn. Any good sized stick, pool cue or broom
handle will suffice if necessary.
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