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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 on a successful
hit, should end the fight quickly. 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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