The bo staff is the “king of the weapons” in the martial arts world, which is why an introductory lesson was offered to help residents better understand what it’s about.
Bojutsu Moose Jaw hosted an evening class in Elgin Park on Aug. 20, where nearly 30 residents learned how to use the bo with good technique while also going through a series of movements. The idea of the free class was to have people participate in the activity, and if interested, join up for fall classes with the community club.
“What I like to talk about for my school is that it’s very much a respectful family (training) environment,” explained head instructor Nathan Douglas. “We focus on skill. It’s really to learn how to use some traditional martial arts weapons and have fun. There is no prerequisite for martial arts background in my class.”
While the bo staff is the king of all martial arts weapons, it’s also the most humble weapon, Douglas continued. It can be used as a walking stick or as a “crazy good” upper-body workout that is a dynamic alternative to lifting weights. The training can also be used as a stress reliever for one hour a week.
Everyone has a different reason for why they like the bo, he said. He likes the mental aspect of using the weapon and memorizing certain techniques, some like it for the visual aspect of spinning the bo, while others enjoy it for self-defence and sparring.
“We do lots of group training (and) pairs training,” Douglas said. “That, in particular, is what most people enjoy.”
By holding the introductory class, Douglas wanted people to know that this is a unique program.
“Little Moose Jaw has something like this and many other places don’t,” he added.
Visit the Bojutsu Moose Jaw website or the club’s Facebook page for more information.
