Craigieburn Martial Arts Centre

Jodo

"To be perfectly honest when I first saw Jodo at the Kyoto Taikai (seminar), I was a little sceptical that the uchidachi (sword person) could be so devastatingly defeated by the jo (stick). I thought that it must be exaggerated somewhat…. However, once I was able to have a go myself I realised just how real it was"
Nakanishi Yasushi Sensei

Jodo (way of the wooden staff) is a well hidden jewel in the world of martial arts it consists of prearranged kata (forms) of the Jo (wooden staff) vs the Bokken (wooden Japanese sword). There are three distinct training areas of Jodo which are:

  • Kihon (Basic forms)
  • Sotai Dosa (Paired forms)
  • Kata (Jo vs Bokken)

Jodo does not rely on strength or fitness. It can be learnt by anyone committed to practice. As the student trains they become more agile, confident and focused along with improved fitness from the physical exercise.

The program focuses on the Kata from the Zen Nihon Kendo Renmei (ZNKR) Jodo curriculum which is the most practiced form of Jodo today. Developed in the late 1960’s, ZNKR Jo is derived from the Jo techniques of Shindo Muso Ryu. This traditional school was founded around the end of the 16th century by Muso Gonnosuke Katsuyoshi.

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Students have the opportunity to attend seminars and competitions organised by the Australian Kendo Renmei. Katas are based around paired forms with one person attacking with the Katana (sword) while the other counter attacks with the Jo (staff).

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A well performed Kata is one where the attacks are done with intensity. This means the defender must move with speed and confidence or they will be struck.

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The program teaches

  • Correct techniques for using the Jo and Sword
  • Jo Kata from the ZNKR Jodo curriculum
  • Moderate cardio workout
  • Strength conditioning
  • Mind and body coordination