How to Use Sai

Sai are Okinawan weapons used in pairs. It is the only weapon used in karate that wasn't originally a farm tool. Instead, it was designed to defend against and break swords. Sai have been used by a number of fictional characters in recent years, both on television and in films, making it a popular weapon among martial artists.

Things You'll Need

  • Sai (two)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the right size. Hook the sai in the space between your thumb and first finger and place the dagger (center prong) along your forearm. The dagger should extend to the elbow but not beyond.

    • 2

      Hold one sai in each hand, daggers facing up and slightly forward. Your fingers should be wrapped around the handle with your thumb facing you.

    • 3

      Ensure that your thumb is below the pommel, the bulge where the dagger and tsuba (curved prongs) meet the handle. If you let your thumb rest on the pommel, your opponent can hit it by sliding his or her weapon between the dagger and the tsuba. This will hurt a great deal.

    • 4

      Flip the sai towards you, taking care not to strike your face, and catch it in the space between your thumb and first finger. Your palm should face up with the dagger resting on your forearm. Now flip it back to the original position.

    • 5

      Practice flipping the sai back and forth until you can do it comfortably and quickly.

    • 6

      Use the dagger to slap or stab your opponent. Use the end of the handle (the knuckle) for punching. The tsuba is used to grab your opponent's clothing or skin and pull him or her toward you.

    • 7

      Throw the sai from the handle, sticking the dagger in your target.

    • 8

      Block blows from your opponent with the dagger by resting it against your forearm and raising your arm to meet the blow. Or hold the sai by the handle and sweep it down and to the side to block a low blow.