History of the Chiishi

Ask the Makiwara is all about exploring different aspects of Goju-Ryu karate, as well as how other martial arts may relate to it. This month we'll be exploring the chiishi, a tool used in hojo undo training.

Hojo undo is defined as "supplementary exercises." These are exercises designed to build strength, stamina, & speed through movements which reflect how we use karate. While pumping iron at the gym will build strength, it will not train the nuanced movements found in our style. As such, training with these simple tools is a crucial activity for all karateka.

Chiishi, which literally translates to "strength stone," is a large stone or cement block with a long dowel attached to its center. Gripping the dowel develops finger and wrist strength for grabbing while carrying & adjusting the balance of the stone develops power in one's upper body. We'll cover several exercises which use the chiishi in future entries.

Higaonna Sensei demonstrating two exercises utilizing chiishi. Taken from the Internet.

Like most hojo undo, chiishi were not developed specifically for karate training. In Okinawa, devices similar to chiishi with spinning cross pieces at the top were used to wind thread for textile production. 

An example of an early weaving tool found in an Okinawan museum. Photo taken from The Art of Hojo Undo by Michael Clarke.

Another possibility for the chiishi's inspiration is a mortar tool used for grinding in food production. Everyday objects would have been easily accessible for even the poorest karateka looking to improve their skills.

While chiishi are Okinawan in nature, there is some thought that there may be a connection in usage between their training exercises and the exercises used in Persia, India, & other Near East areas. These weighted clubs have been used in that area since antiquity for strength training purposes and are still used in many areas by wrestlers. Many of the traditional exercises share similarities with our own chiishi exercises. Due to Okinawa's strong trade ties with China, it's possible that India brought over not just the Buddhist ideas found in our style but also training methods. There is nothing concrete on this however and it is just speculation. 

A modern wrestler training with meel. Note the similarities in placement & grip. Taken from the Internet.

Join us next week to learn how to make your own chiishi!