Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or you just love Bruce Lee films, learning to use Nunchaku is a worthwhile and enjoyable pastime.
With a focus on safety and proper technique, anyone can learn the basics of Nunchaku on their own time. In this article, we’ll show you how to start your self-training with your first pair of foam nunchucks.
Getting Started with Nunchaku
Internet martial arts sites will almost definitely have pairs available. Alternatively, purchase a book on nunchaku basics.
Important Note: A Nunchaku is a weapon, so you should look up where you are allowed to carry it. Wooden nunchaku are illegal to buy, sell, own or transport in some states/countries. Always check your local country and area laws before buying/making them.
As there is a very good chance you could seriously injure yourself or someone else with nunchaku, it’s best to have someone around to apply first aid in case of accident.
Safety First
Remember that this is a weapon, not a toy. They are good for self-defense, exercise or just learning tricks with them.
As there is a very good chance you could seriously injure yourself or someone else with nunchaku, it’s best to have someone around to apply first aid in case of accident.
Stretch your arms and wrists.
Three Easy Nunchaku Moves That Anyone Can Learn in Minutes
Basic Nunchaku Techniques
Twirl them around slowly until you get the feel of them, then practice passing from hand to hand and doing figure of 8's.
When you learn these simple moves, you will be set up to do progressively trickier stuff.
Simple Moves to Practice
- Pass the nunchuck under your arm.
- Strike left and right.
- Stop it by wrapping it around your waist.
Advancing Your Skills
Always learn each move slowly, then get progressively faster. Don't try it fast to start with or you could end up with a nasty headache!
By the time you get to the advanced techniques in the back of the books, you should be able to combine a few moves and invent your own.
Transitioning to Wooden Nunchaku
As light and quick as foam is, you're now ready for the big challenge. The difference between the wood and foam chunks is weight.
Start off slow again and get used to the increased weight. Practice all the techniques you've learned slowly.
Important Considerations
Practice often to get used to one and stick with it. No, every pairs comes with different feeling, weight, etc. The length of the chain also determine how swift you can go.
Practice slowly with your eyes closed.
Self-Defense and the Law
It depends. If you're in a situation where you need to defend yourself with a weapon, then the specific weapon you use won't really matter.
If you're in a situation where you didn't reasonably need a weapon to defend yourself, then it could be considered assault regardless of the weapon you used, including nunchucks.