GMAU
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Thanks for this question. In short, a Jo can be used instead of a Bo for training/practice. Let me dig a bit deeper here.
When you are in a room with limited space (low ceiling, furniture, etc.), and perhaps during the winter when it is too cold to practically train outside – I advise to train with a Jo indoors. In lieu of a Jo, an escrima stick is even possible, although if you have the proper space and reach, a Jo is much closer to the physics of a Bo.
What is the difference between a Jo and a Bo? How would your training be detrimental or possibly lack?
The Bo has traditionally been 6 feet long (rokushakubo) — roku: six, shaku: feet, bo: staff (roughly). Sometimes even a bit longer and it has been used as a basic transition piece to longer pole weapons in Europe (Quarterstaff) or to the naginata in Japan. When you train with a Jo of 4′ – 4.5′ length, you will not be able to simulate the correct balance, spatial awareness, thrusts, and certain blocks. However, the difference is related to the weight of the staff in your hand, the creation of habit in your bodily movement, and proximity awareness.Overall, the training can be done in a very similar manner. There are just certain things that you would do with a Bo, that you would not do with a Jo. You would not do as many thrusting and long range attacks of course, you would also have less choice in your blocking; as the Jo simply covers less of your body.
To conclude, my thought is that training with the Jo most of the time rather than the Bo is a fine idea (if that is the only option). But, going outside, to a park, etc. every once in a while to get a feel for the difference in lengths will serve you quite well.
I assume someone could also tell me — why are you training with a 6 ft. bo — you should be using an 8 ft. quarterstaff! The length of the weapon changes in your body’s muscle memory and habitual control of the weapon. The more you practice with a specific length, quite simply, the faster you will master the proper abilities – with that specific length.
I apologize for the confusion and exclusion on that. The cross strike is a down 45 degree or shallower strike; starting from a higher guard position coming down to the opponent’s neck, temple, or shoulder. It continues all the way to the staff finishing past your left hip (assuming you started on a high right side guard. This is properly defended with a “corner block.”
The new version of Ultimate Bo debuting later this year will have a much expanded sparring and kumite section, to better approach, train, explain, and understand the concept of staff on staff combat; or even staff on similar weaponry situations. Our purpose in Ultimate Bo sparring is less on realistic weapons defense (as it is the 21st century), and more on fluidity based training, such as that found in kendo practice.
I am slightly embarrassed to say that I have never used action flex brand nunchakus! I do use the action flex sparring bo (in Ultimate Bo Sparring/Kumite), as it is really the only realistic option available for the bo. I have also used the action flex sparring sword. I really like the action flex engineering, which provides excellent rebound/flex which limits injuries while still providing a realistic experience.
In the Ultimate Chuks training videos, I am using the “standard sparring nunchakus”, which are always yellow and black. This type of foam and corded chuk has been popularized by the World Nunchaku Association, based out of the Netherlands. This is a great organization which has really expanded and promoted the sport of nunchaku, especially in regards to competition sparring. These yellow and black foam core nunchakus can be purchased relatively inexpensively, which makes them an ideal first sparring weapon choice. They do not hurt really, and allow you to work with speed and precision.
However, we do not have an “official Ultimate Chuks sparring chuk” at this point in time (Feb. 2015). This may change at some point, but for now, you are really free to use what you think works. It is true though, that your partner will need the same class of nunchakus that you have. It would not be a fair/just sparring match if one is using the large action flex nunchakus and one is using the foam core chuks. I also want to explore more nunchaku kumite with the action flex chuks in due time.
Our sparring section of the course is designed to benefit us in a few ways:
-Understanding how the nunchaku movements can be realistically applied in a combat scenario. Angle of striking, footwork, hand placement, and timing are all taken into account.
-The ability to practice free-form with a sparring partner develops our blocking and reaction based counter-attacks in a fluid dynamic.
-Sparring competitions are really fun.
