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The sai is one of the primary weapons in Ryuei-ryu's kobudo curriculum, and its handling reflects the style's distinctive Chinese-Okinawan flavor. The extended grip holds the sai with the point facing forward, emphasizing thrusts and strikes with the shaft. The retracted grip secures the sai against the forearm, fortifying the arm for blocks and using the pommel for powerful punching. Sai kata in Ryuei-ryu
Characteristics of Ryuei-ryu sai
Dual-purpose design:
The sai is a three-pronged metal truncheon, most effective for both striking and blocking. In Ryuei-ryu, the sai is used to parry, trap, and disarm, as well as for offensive striking and jabbing.
Chinese influence:
The Ryuei-ryu sai techniques, like the empty-hand kata, are rooted in Southern Chinese martial arts. They incorporate circular movements, evasive footwork, and the principle of simultaneous offense and defense.
Emphasis on wrist and finger manipulation:
Ryuei-ryu training on the sai focuses on dexterity and coordination. Students learn how to quickly flip the weapon between different grips, using gravity and thumb pressure to shift from blocking to striking or trapping.
Distinct grips:
The style utilizes specific grips beyond the conventional "Ninja Turtle" style seen in pop culture. These grips leverage the weapon's design for maximum control and effectiveness.
Training and philosophy
Not a short sword:
Training in Ryuei-ryu emphasizes that the sai is a truncheon, not a bladed weapon. Its manipulation is a specific martial skill that requires a high level of training and body awareness.
Extension of the body:
Like other kobudo weapons, the sai is taught as an extension of the body. The goal is for the practitioner to control the weapon as if it were a natural part of their arm, blending armed and unarmed techniques
The specific sai kata taught in Ryuei-ryu were brought from China by the founder, Norisato Nakaima, and are unique to the family system. Though other Ryukyu styles share some kata with similar names, the execution within Ryuei-ryu is distinctive. the techniques are demonstrated in instruction and competitions by senior practitioners While the sai is a core weapon in many Okinawan martial arts, Ryuei-ryu's application emphasizes the unique body mechanics, footwork, and strategic principles of the style.