The
collective name of the three
training weapons used in
Aikido: the
tanto, the
jo and the
bokken. Generally crafted from hardwood, these weapons are used to learn a variety of techniques, starting with basic
front strike and
side strike techniques with the bokken and advancing to challenging
throws and
pins. At beginner levels, both
Uke and
Shite learn primarily
bokken techniques. The
jo is typically introduced next, followed by the
tanto. Lower
kyu students practice uneven matchups (such as jo-tanto or bokken-
unarmed) and throws with
buki.
Focus and harmony between Shite and Uke is extremely important when performing buki techniques, since the slightest lapse in attention can cause nasty bruises, broken buki, or worse. Additionally, buki techniques can be some of the most physically and visually interesting techniques to practice and perform, as experienced individuals can appear to be dancing gracefully amidst a blur of wooden weapons.