KOBUDO – TONFA

Part 2

By Fumio Demura

Two of the most popular materials for tonfa manufacturing are oak and cherry wood. Many people like their tonfa varnished for better look, but if you are using it for practical combat techniques and training, this varnish soon will go away. No matter what, remember to clean it periodically with a cloth moistened with olive or other vegetable oil.The tonfa is composed of seven parts:

1. Front head.
2. Grip.
3. Grip head.
4. Top of main body.
5. Bottom of main body.
6. Side of main body.
7. Back head.

The basic grip of the tonfa is very similar to the Karate fist and is firm enough so the weapon doesn’t drop while in use. Due to the twisting and snapping actions, the grip has to be very relaxed but firm enough to apply power at the moment of impact by squeezing and tightening up the fingers. This is the reason why, in order to be effective using this weapon, the practitioner must develop strong wrists. The key for a powerful swing of the tonfa is to minimally bend the elbow when you are swinging the weapon. Always keep the arms extended when rotating the tonfa.

The blocking actions resemble those used in Karate and the principles are almost identical. The attacking maneuvers are varied and they can be more complex when we use two tonfa at the same time. Always remember that an effective performance and use of the tonfa involves three different principles: maai, kime, and mushin, and perfect synchronized action of the hands, elbows, and hips.

To learn more about Kobudo and Fumio Demura:

http://martialartsdigital.com/fumio-demura-kobudo-...