02/07/2026
And with that we've finished the Jo series' of John Sensei's special weapons classes! 🥋
Over the last 5 weeks Sensei John covered the 20 Jo Suburi, Kumi Jo sequences 1-5, and the 13 Jo Awase originally developed by Saito Sensei. The weekly short series brought together mix of brand new learners, seniors, and those who joined us for the introductory sessions last Nov-Dec. Classes were packed, fun and energetic, and we all learnt a thing or two about safety and situational awareness.
Apart from learning the techniques, Sensei John also taught a brief history of Aiki Jo and specifications of the jo as a weapon. Weaved into the lessons were the other aikido philosophies that weapons use can teach you such as proper spacing (Ma-ai), sustaining a thrust or a cut through mindfulness (Zanshin) and connection with your partner (Musubi). 🧠
A big thank you to John Sensei for bringing back the weapons classes, even for a short while. Looking forward to the ken series soon! ⚔️
