Ashibarai: Leg Sweep Foundation
Ashibarai (leg sweep) is introduced as the fundamental strike in bojutsu, essential for all staff work. The technique involves sweeping motion targeting the lower leg from mid-shin downward, designed to displace the opponent's leg rather than maximize impact damage. The instructor emphasizes that mastery of ashibarai is prerequisite to effective staff technique.
Positioning and Target Mechanics
The strike is executed from gedamokamai stance, with the staff angled to strike the leg in a way that forces it to respond by sliding out from under the opponent's body. The instructor clarifies that the target zone is specifically the lower leg rather than higher points, as the technique functions primarily as a parry or sweep rather than a power strike.
Recovery and Gravity-Assisted Movement
After striking, the practitioner releases the top hand grip and allows gravity to swing the staff back, then catches and slides the hand back into starting position. This method leverages inertia rather than muscular effort, maintaining balance and centerline control throughout the movement.
Palm Orientation Variations
Both palm-up and standard grip variations are acceptable, with the recovery method remaining fundamentally the same. The instructor warns against unnecessary grip changes during application, as these movements risk loss of motor control in actual practice.
Kata Integration: Go no Kata
Ashibarai combines with yokomenu and bo footigata to form go no kata (five methods), the first kata of the Shoden scroll in Kukushininryu. This progression teaches three distinct approaches to attacking the same target points on the leg.
Stance-Based Strike Variations
The natural strike differs depending on stance: from ihen nokomai or jodan nokomai (upper positions), ashibarai executes naturally; from hira ichimonji, the natural strike is noguchi; from seigan nokomai or gedan nokomai (lower positions), the technique cannot be effectively applied. Practitioners should work ashibarai from higher stances where the body mechanics support the movement.
Conceptual Framework: Floor Sweeping Analogy
The instructor recommends visualizing ashibarai as literally sweeping the floor while changing direction, treating it as a natural, economical movement. This mental framework promotes efficiency and reduces unnecessary complexity in execution.
Ninja Bojutsu - Long Staff Lesson
Key Takeaways
- •Ashibarai: Leg Sweep Foundation
- •Positioning and Target Mechanics
- •Recovery and Gravity-Assisted Movement
- •Palm Orientation Variations
This is a sample lesson from the online weapons training course, featuring the rokushaku-bo 6' staff weapon of the Ninja. Get more information at www.warrior-concepts-online.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about bojutsu — long staff?
This video covers ashibarai: leg sweep foundation, positioning and target mechanics, recovery and gravity-assisted movement. It provides detailed instruction from Jeffrey Miller.
How long does it take to learn bojutsu — long staff?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing bojutsu — long staff?
The natural strike differs depending on stance: from ihen nokomai or jodan nokomai (upper positions), ashibarai executes naturally; from hira ichimonji, the natural strike is noguchi; from seigan nokomai or gedan nokomai (lower positions), the technique cannot be effectively applied. Practitioners should work ashibarai from higher stances where the body mechanics support the movement.
