“Fighting Is For Grownups, And That’s Only If You Got No Other Choice.” – Raphael, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

By: Rochelle E. Brenner

The Sai is a traditional three-pronged weapon that originated as a farming tool to cultivate crops and is best known as the weapon of choice for one of the most influential martial artists of all time: Raphael, the Ninja Turtle. 

Raphael uses twin sai, the same dual weapon used at Action Karate, showcasing the tool’s effectiveness in combat for striking, blocking and disarming.

Historically, variations of the sai were developed all over Asia, including Indonesia, India, China and Thailand. It is believed that the weapon was repurposed from farming to self-defense during the period of Okinawan resistance against foreign invaders and oppressive regimes. The sai became an essential part of the Okinawan martial arts system, particularly in styles like Kobudo and certain forms of karate.

The design of the sai, a trident with a central shaft and side pointed prongs, allows for both offense and defense. The sai is used to strike, block, or disarm opponents, making it a versatile weapon. The Action Karate advanced curriculum is “Zai kata,” as taught by Master Dave Kovar, a challenging combination of lunges, redirections, strikes, recoils, counter blocks and thrusts.

Working with the sai helps to improve coordination, speed, and precision. The weapon's unique design makes it easy to control and gain reach over an opponent.  

The parts of the Sai each have a name. Here they are (as conveniently listed in Wikipedia)

• Monouchi, the metal main prong of the sai, that is either round or faceted.

• Saki, the sharp point of the main prong

• Yoku, the two shorter metal side prongs of the sai, which usually point in the same direction as the main prong

• Tsume, the sharp points of the two side prongs

• Moto, the center point between the two side prongs

• Tsuka, the one-handed handle of the sai

• Tsukagashira, the blunt metal pommel of the sai.

Training with the sai requires a high level of coordination and dexterity. The sai kata helps improve hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, reflexes and timing.  Using the sai engages multiple muscle groups, especially shoulders (deltoids), forearms, biceps and triceps.  Sai training demands concentration and mental discipline. Practitioners must remain focused on their movements and techniques, fostering a strong mind-body connection.

One more inspirational quote from Raphael: "You better hand over the phone, or so help me, I'll kick your hairy butt all the way to New Jersey!"