Kung Fu Weapons

At Nabi Su Kung Fu New York, the weapon is taught as an extension of self.

Our practice begins within, in our own center. Our posture, breathing and ways of moving, including and especially our stances, assure that we remain grounded and centered while circumstances change.

Bo Practice

The first weapons that the student meets at Nabi Su are the escrima sticks. We practice these as a practical, light, short – 26 to 28 inches – and relatively simple self-defense tool. With a small amount of familiarity with these, the student becomes more confident handling any object that may be convenient, should they ever need to protect themselves against attack.

It is not until brown belt level that the next weapon is introduced. The Bo is a 6-foot staff taught via the form called Dragon's Tail, a form that is complex and beautiful.

For those who are studying Tai Chi, which includes all who have achieved the level of Black Belt in Kung Fu, weapons begin with the saber, followed by the double-edged sword, then the fan. Spear forms from Hung Gar and Cho Li Fut, Butterfly Knives, Lightning Saber and the 2 person Saber/Spear form are taught to advanced practitioners

The most advanced students practice Jodo, the art of wooden staff, jo, against long and short swords, a tradition comprising 64 forms dating back to the Samurai and attributed to Myamoto Mushashi. Jodo is elegantly simple, requiring and developing great concentration and power.

All weapons are taught as a facet of self development and self mastery. The weapons are made of rattan, bamboo, wood, or thin, flexible metal. No weapon at Nabi Su is used for harm or to promote ego.