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There are records of tonfa existing in different parts of east Asia for centuries. Tonfa are a typically wooden weapon with one main shaft measuring about 15"-18" and a perpendicular shorter handle. They are believed to have originated from a farming tool; specifically a handle from a millstone. It is the predecessor to the nightsticks that law enforcement officers still use today.  As a dojo with Shotokan as its base for martial arts we trace our skills and kata to Okinawa. 

A multitude of strikes can be done with this weapon using all of its different surfaces with various grips: honte-mochi (natural), gyakute-mochi (reverse) and tokushu-mochi (special). These include swinging, thrusting, pulling in your opponent while grabbing the main shaft and a unique skill where you swing your arm and the tonfa is allowed to pivot freely in the hand to increase the speed at the end of the weapon.The practitioner must accurately anticipate when to firmly re-grip the tonfa to ensure it does not fall out of their hand. In addition, it is a very useful tool for defensive maneuvers as tonfa typically extend past the elbows by a few inches when gripped naturally.

Physical benefits include: coordination between both arms, improved timing, and increased grip/forearm strength. While the practice of weapons is something that almost all martial artists love it is important to know that a fundamental component to any effective strike is transferring power from the legs, to the hips, core and arms in a fast yet smooth motion. Learn this weapon and more by visiting our website, booking a lesson and get started on your journey TODAY!

Watch the video of Sensei Nate demonstrating with this weapon: 


 

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