Jodo

Martial Art: Jodo
Translation: "The way of the stick"
Country of Origin: Japan
Created: 15th Century

The Jo is the Japanese short staff. It is about 4 feet long and is the smaller cousin of the Bo, which is 6 feet. Legend has it that Muso Gunnosuke a great master of bojutsu (fighting with the Bo) once had a dual with Miyamoto Musashi the greatest swordsman to ever live. Neither had ever lost a fight. Muso fought with the Bo and Miyamoto fought with his two swords. Despite having an advantage in range with his staff Muso couldn't break through Miyamoto's defence and was always having to try to prevent the swordsman from getting in closer where the Bo is less effective. Finally Muso lost the dual but because he was a nice chap Miyamoto decided to spare his life. Muso, feeling quite embarrassed, went off to contemplate matters and lived a life in exile. After much thought he chopped the ends of his Bo and named his new improved short staff a Jo. After practising a few new moves he then returned to civilisation in 1605 and demanded a re-match. Because of its size the Jo was far more effective at shorter range than the Bo and Muso was no longer at a disadvantage when his opponent tried to get closer and ultimately went on to win. This was the only time either of them ever lost a fight. Muso had created Jojustu! He called his new style Shindo Muso Ryu meaning "The Heavenly Way of Muso's staff". In the 20th century the name Jojutsu was changed to Jodo.