WHY STUDY THE CANE?

The modern cane, made with self-defense in mind, is a powerful weapon that has practical application on a daily basis, is not threatening, but is effective against attackers armed with bladed weapons or using their bare hands.  Study of the cane provides excellent mental and physical discipline and develops balance, strength, smooth coordinated movement, and the ability to memorize physical combinations.  For Asian martial arts practitioners, the cane is an excellent weapon to add as part of your study and provides a opening into developing a broader base of knowledge and skill as a martial artist.

WHY CANE IN A FENCING SCHOOL?

In the 1800s in Europe gentlemen carried a walking stick as a standard part of their dress - a fashionable man about town would routinely own a number of canes and carry them whenever he left the house.  Because the cane was handy, it was frequently used as a tool for self defense when accosted by footpads (the muggers of the day).  This created a demand for instruction in the use of the cane as a weapon for self-defense, and in the late 1800s a number of fencing masters actively taught the use of the cane as a part of the curriculum of their salles.  The system of walking stick fighting developed by Maitre d'Armes Pierre Vigny in the 1890s serves to this day as the basis of La Canne play in the sport of Savate.  So, in offering cane, we are returning to a weapon that has a strong historical connection with classical fencing, as well as a weapon that is today a practical tool for personal defense.

WHAT CANE SYSTEMS DO WE OFFER?

We are the host dojo for the development of Tsue Kakuto, a cane method that combines current Asian martial arts based cane systems with the European cane, sword, and singlestick traditions.  Tsue Kakuto is compatible with other cane methods and other martial arts.  It focuses on the use of distance and targeting based on anatomical and energy system vulnerabilities.  Tsue Kakuto has a 6 kyu (White, Yellow, Orange, Green, Purple, and Red belts) and 1 dan (Black belt).  Tsue Kakuto training is available in individual or group lessons with testing done in the Salle. 

THE CANE ITSELF

The canes we use and recommend are made by either Goju-Shorei or by Canemasters.  These are typically made from hickory, oak, walnut, or cherry wood and are sized to the individual.  The horn (tip of the crook), crook, and shaft of the cane are made for effective use to strike or hook an opponent or to block attacks.  A fine cane is an investment in a very practical and handsome work of art.

OTHER WEAPONS

See our Kakuto Bugei page for information on other Asian weapons systems that we teach.