Buki waza is weapons technique, in this case using traditional weapons: the jo (4 foot staff), the ken (sword). Traditional Aikido weapons training includes the tanto (knife).
The skills learned through weapons practice are timing and distance, dynamic movement, kime (focus), intensity and energy extension. These can be invaluable to empty hand technique. As one trains one will see the close relationship between weapons and empty hand training. The benefits of weapons training benefits are beyond measure, and it is part of our Aikido tradition.
Weapons training must always stress safety; a wooden training weapon can injure or kill as easily as a live blade. Always treat training weapons as if they were real, and take pains to observe proper etiquette of handling and use. This will also help you to develop an attitude of seriousness and purpose in your training.
Weapons training will include:
Jo:
Stances and methods of holding
Suburi: solo striking practice
Kata: prearranged forms
Kumijo: paired forms, jo against jo
Jo against Bokken paired forms
Ken (usually using Bokken, wooden sword)
Stances and methods of holding
Suburi: solo striking practice
Tanren uchi: solo striking practice against a target
Kata: prearranged forms
Kumitachi: paired forms, bokken against bokken
Bokken against Jo paired forms
Tags: Aikido, Chicago (Lakeview), Weapons Training