The jo appears to be the lowliest of all tools--an ordinary length of wood--yet it’s an exceptional weapon. While no one speaks of famous jo makers the way they do of sword smiths, the jo is capable of snapping the best swords ever forged. Packed with information on correct grips, stances, postures and etiquette, the book also outlines striking methods, combination techniques, and a 31-count formal solo exercise called tandoku renshu, making it the ultimate resource for those who appreciate Japan’s most subtle weapon.

In the early 1600's, master martial artist Muso Gonnosuke was defeated by Musashi Miyamoto. Humiliated, Muso isolated himself. During this period of time, he conceived the idea of a new form of staff fighting that used a shortened stick four feet in length. The Jo combines the techniques of the spear, sword and the naginata.

The jo is the Japanese 4-foot staff, originally taught with the ken (sword) in the samurai arts. Essential Jo is arguably the most comprehensive text on the subject to date, offering a course of study from white through to black belt in this practical, yet elegant, art. The book features over 900 professional black and white photographs accompanied by clear, detailed textual explanations. While it is intended primarily for students with experience in weapons arts, particularly jodo, the book can also be used by beginners for home study. The art of jodo makes an excellent addition to any martial art system. This is the first instructional text by award-winning martial arts writer and teacher Dan Djurdjevic.

With extensive, step-by-step photographs and instructions, this jiu-jitsu guide is an effective tool for mastering this ancient martial art. The original Japanese martial art developed by the elite samurai class during Japan's feudal era, Jiu-jitsu is the forerunner of Judo and the precursor of today's ultimate fighting styles, such as mixed martial arts (MMA). For centuries, this method of unarmed self-defense proved so successful in combat that it was kept secret and taught only to a select few. Based on the author's study with instructors at the Tokyo police academy, this martial arts book presents all the traditional techniques of Jujitsu, also known as Jiu-jitsu. These techniques teach you valuable restraining methods that force your opponent to submit without abuse by using pressure points. It shows you tips for search and seizure, and the almost extinct art of Hojojutsu—how to tie people up without using any knots. Japanese Jiu-jitsu: Secret Techniques of Self-Defense addresses and demonstrates the full range of Kaisho Goshin Budo Taiho Jitsu Ryu (Tokyo police self-defense). Learn specific techniques such as: The use of hands Throwing an opponent Attacking vital points with strikes and kicks The use of weapons (like the staff). This fascinating Jiujitsu book, designed as a training manual, also serves as a remarkable illustrated guide to the secret art of Japanese samurai self-defense.

A translation and reproduction of a Japanese book about Bojutsu. Matsumoto Torata developed this system of Bojutsu (fighting with a staff) in the 1920s. He intended this system to be used in Junior High Schools as well as by people in the community as a method of self-defense. His training methodology likely originated with the Shingyoto Muto Ryu school of martial arts. First time in English.

The oldest and most respected martial arts title in the industry, this popular monthly magazine addresses the needs of martial artists of all levels by providing them with information about every style of self-defense in the world - including techniques and strategies. In addition, Black Belt produces and markets over 75 martial arts-oriented books and videos including many about the works of Bruce Lee, the best-known marital arts figure in the world.

The oldest and most respected martial arts title in the industry, this popular monthly magazine addresses the needs of martial artists of all levels by providing them with information about every style of self-defense in the world - including techniques and strategies. In addition, Black Belt produces and markets over 75 martial arts-oriented books and videos including many about the works of Bruce Lee, the best-known marital arts figure in the world.