Kobudo refers to an Ancient Okinawan weapon art which is not formally part of karate-do (open hand martial art). 

However, the development of kobudo weapon training has shadowed the development and evolution of karate to the degree that they are almost inseparable. 

Kobudo utilises similar stances, postures and fighting strategies as Karate. 

Therefore Kobudo should not be pursued unless the practitioner has a sufficient understanding of empty hand martial arts. 

In the 16th Century the Japanese invaded Okinawa and banned the use of weapons, only permitting the Japanese Samurai to own weapons in order to control the islands.

Just as the monks in China had developed weapons from seemingly innocent items such as the staff, so did the Okinawans. These creative farmers and fisherman resorted to converting the implements of their working life into destructive weapons. They developed complex weapon forms for such items as the 6 foot staff (bo), pitchfork (sai), and the nunchaku was considered a harmless tool for grinding rice. 

It is important to remember that Kobudo weapons are based on karate principles. And with proficient practice of the chosen weapon the body and weapon will become one, making the weapon an extension of the body. Kobudo therefore maximises reach and power of all blocks and strikes through the use of weapons.

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