Weapons training is one of the most exciting parts of learning a martial art. All systems have their choice of weapons, but the bottom line is that any weapon you use becomes an extension of your body (increases distance) and brings you closer to an opponent (decreases distance). Anything can be used as a weapon, but traditional weapons can be classified in four general categories, which often overlap.

The first, and most basic, type of weapon is a stick. Sticks are weapons like staffs, spears, Escrima sticks, etc.

The second basic type of weapon is a blade. Blades can be knives, double-edged swords, broadswords, etc.

The third basic type of weapon is a projectile. Projectiles can be things like throwing stars, arrows, darts, etc.

The fourth basic type of weapon is a combination. Combinations can be the nine-section whip, rope dart, three-section staff, etc.

Each weapon falls into another category based on its length, which is either short or long. Staffs and spears are sticks that would be long, but Escrima sticks would be considered short within the same category of sticks. Swords are considered short weapons, but a rope dart, which is a knife on the end of a rope, is a long weapon.

Each weapon has its place within the hands of a skilled fighter despite its length. The principle is the same with all weapons: They are an extension of the body. Some weapons, like a knife or Eskrima sticks, are an extension within the in-fighting range – in other words, you can still extend an empty hand and reach an opponent.

Other weapons, like a spear or nine-section whip, extend when opponents are just beyond your reach with an empty hand or kick. Projectiles extend your reach to opponents that are a greater distance away by throwing a star or shooting an arrow.

Of course, each weapon has its unique methods and purposes, like cutting or hitting, but ultimately, the common denominator is that they alter the space between you and your opponent. The weapon extends the distance of your body, so that the distance between you and the opponent is decreased. On another level, using weapons also increases the distance that you can project your own personal energy.

Training with weapons takes the martial artist’s skill to another level by increasing distance.