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| General Information |
Jojutsu or jodo is a Japanese stick fighting using a short stick. Jo refers to ‘stick’ in Japanese and the stick is made of oak in a skewed, round shape. Generally, the stick is 128cm long with the diameter of 2.5cm, weighing about 550g (Shindo Muso Ryu Jo Jutsu, n.d.). Jodo consists of 12 essential techniques and 64 pattern exercises (kata) practised in pairs. Jodo is unique and differentiated from other martial arts like kendo as the practitioners do not wear protective gear (Shindo Muso Ryu Jo Jutsu, n.d.).In jodo, they are ranked under kyu/dan system that have been adopted since the 1970s (Shindo Muso Ryu Jo Jutsu, n.d.). They can achieve 1st dan after passing from the 8th to 1st kyu. Dan goes up to the 5th, and then they are qualified to be licensed as an instructor who culminates with the menkyo certificate – the full teaching license. |
| History/Development |
The early history of jodo can be best described from the duel between Muso Gonnosuke Katsuyoshi, a legendary samurai, and Miyamoto Musashi in the 17th century. A renowned, master-level swordsman Gonnosuke was defeated by the young fighter, Musashi, who used both short and long swords to immobilize Gonnosuke’s staff. Gonnosuke, due to the lost, had the time to train and meditate, which led to his inspiration that “using a round stick, know the solar plexus”, which was inspired by the pioneer of the art, Muso Gonnosuke, a legendary samurai (Shindo Muso Ryu Jo Jutsu, n.d.). Gonnosuke shortened his staff, which enabled him to be more versatile and flexible. Adapting his skills and expertise in the sword to the new weapon, he defeated Musashi in a second bout, according to legend. |
Transmission
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| Relevant Organisations |
- International Jodo Association
- Nihon Jodo Kai
- International Jodo Federation |
| Additional Materials |
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| References |
- Shindo Muso Ryu Jo Jutsu. (n.d.).
http://www.shindomusoryu.com/index.htm | | |
