I first learned broadsword off a instructional video! Isnt that cheap? well, i have since learned from several people who are far better at it than i am. I am barely a beginner at it. I learned one form to begin with , i beleive its a wushu style form. I have since modified that form to suit my needs and have taught it to a few people. I dont consider myself an expert on this weapon but again, enough to get by ;-)
The Dao, or kung fu broadsword as it is commonly called was used by foot soldiers in ancient china all the way up to the boxer rebelion. It is designed as a "chopping" weapon, very little of the movements associated with this weapon utilize the thrust, but some in fact do. One thing must be noted, the term "broadsword" is not an accurate word for this sword. Broadsword is commonly used to describe straight , double edged european swords, whereas the dao is curved and single edged. Of all swords, the dao more closely resembles the european falchion, because of its saber like design. |
