Jodo
Jodo - the way of the stick - is a Japanese martial art which employes weapon which is called a Jo. The Jo is a round stick made of Japaneses white oak. It is 128cms in length and 2.4cms in diameter.
The main purpose of Jodo is to defeat an opponent without attacking. Its sprit is not to injure the opponent, but to utilize the techniques thereby demonstrating the true versatility of the weapon.
Learning and studing Jodo is in effect training of your mind and body. What ones learns is not only dexterity of movement, but also development of the sprit. Through Jodo training: -
- You can develop various virtues such as good manners, trustworthiness, sincerity, modesty, etc
- You can build a strong physique and become a person of agile action
- You can have a fine carriage
- You can improve your abilities to make right judgement and right decisions, and handle problems with self-confidence
- You can have good human relations and develop a spirit of co-operation in the society
Jodo techniques include thrusting, parrying, and striking and is noted for its equal handling from either side of the body.
In practice of Jodo, it is essential that you follow instruction precisely, always in an alert and concentrated mind as if you were engaged in real life-or-death combat. By doing so, you should be able to master those KATA in terms of not only appearance but also spirit, and eventually you should reach the level of skill that you can participate in a match.
West Australian Kendo Renmei