Okinawans call a boat oar an eiku (or eku). The eiku has point at the tip of the paddle, a curve on one side, and a ridge on the other side. It can be used as a weapon in a similar way as the bo (staff). And, thanks to the eiku’s unique shape, a user fighting on the beach would use it to flip sand into the opponent’a face.
The Global Martial Arts University (GMAU) doesn’t have an eiku course, but eiku techniques and lessons will soon be included in the highest black-chevron level of the Ultimate Bo course.
Read on to learn more about the eiku…!
In kobudo, the weapon systems of Okinawan martial arts, the word eiku refers to the oar or paddle. It’s a versatile weapon often associated with the art of “eikujutsu” or “eikujitsu”, where practitioners learn techniques involving the use of the oar for self-defense.
The eiku can be used for striking, blocking, and grappling maneuvers, showcasing the adaptability of Okinawan kobudo techniques with everyday tools.
The primary difference between the eiku and the bo (staff) lies in their shapes and applications. The eiku, or oar, is shorter and broader compared to the bo. It typically has a blade-like end resembling the shape of a boat paddle, and it is often used for techniques that involve both striking and grappling.
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On the other hand, the bo is a long staff, usually about six feet in length. It provides a different range of techniques, including strikes, blocks, and sweeps, which take advantage of its long reach.
While both the eiku and bo are part of Okinawan kobudo and share some similarities, their distinct shapes lead to variations in applications within martial-arts practices.
The GMAU Ultimate Bo Program
The GMAU Ultimate Bo program seamlessly integrates traditional bojustsu skills with modern applications. Please see the fact sheet, below, for more information.
PLEASE NOTE: The GMAU does not currently offer a stand-alone Eiku program. Some eiku training will soon be included in our Ultimate Bo program at the highest black-chevron level.
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