Pearls of Wisdom

The Dreaded Chinese Cane

Karate Kung Fu Illustrated November 1987

by Sifu Jane Hallander

In ancient China soldiers and professional martial artists fought their battles with warfare weapons, such as the broadsword and spear.  However, the average man was forced to use whatever he had available when the need arose to defend himself. His weapon could even be as simple as a cane.

Today martial arts instructors teach traditional warrior’s weapons for a far different purpose.  Students use them to improve their balance and coordination. However, the cane is still being taught primarily for self-defense, since many people carry one.

During World War II the cane became a popular self-defense weapon in China.  Canes gained popularity with elderly people since they require little strength and only a few techniques to make them an effective self-defense weapon.

Three techniques work especially well.  The first is a block toward the outside with the weapon.  This opens up the attacker’s body to the canes counter attack.

The second cane defense utilized the same outward block, however, a cane strike is executed straight down on the assailant’s head.

The third tactic requires a hooked cane.  In this technique, the attack is blocked across the cane wielder’s body with the hooked end and pointed toward the assailant.  By blocking in this manner, the defender is exposing the attackers arm or throat to a grab made with the canes hooked end.

Overhead blocks made by bracing the midsection of the cane with both hands provide instant self-defense against an overhead attack.  This block can easily be followed with a low hook to the assailant’s leg or a poke to the body.  Pressure points also play a valuable role in cane defense.  People who know these pressure points can become dangerous with their canes.  When pressure is places on the correct point, pain, numbness or unconsciousness can result.  The use of pressure points requires no strength, only knowledge of their locations and the correct angle at which to apply pressure.

There is one important requirement for cane self defense.  It must be quick.  If it isn’t, the attacker can easily catch the cane and disarm the defender.  Further more, sheer strength isn’t required to make these techniques work.  Rather quick pulling or twisting power is what counts.

There is no special footwork needed to use cane either.  Almost any kind will work.  More importantly, if defenders have enough experience and sensitivity they will make the first move.  Not surprisingly, the cane is a traditional kung fu weapon.  It is extremely useful because it is usually available when the need for self defense arises.

To learn more about Kung Fu and the Chinese Cane in San Diego County visit:  whitedragonmartialarts.com