Thursday, March 4, 2010

Traditional European Martial Arts: Jogo do Pau


For a long time, everyone has looked to Asia for martial arts, but there is a growing interest in local martial traditions all over the world. Here is a German documentary on the Portuguese art of Jogo do Pau. A stick-fighting art with its roots in the Middle Ages, it has been attracting attention and gaining respect in recent years. If I'm not mistaken, it may be a derivative of combat with the Medieval greatsword. Be warned...the clip is in German. For those who are interested, here is an English language website with some information on the art. Wikipedia offers information and links. This is the English version of a Portuguese website. The Dog Brothers are taking an interest in the art, and there are a video and book available, as well.