Spear Fighting Basics for Martial Artists

Ever wondered how a long pole can become an extension of your body? Spear fighting isn’t just old‑school combat – it’s a practical way to improve balance, timing, and distance control. Whether you’re an Aikido student looking to add a weapon to your toolkit or a curious newcomer, this guide gives you the nuts‑and‑bolts you need to start training safely.

Why Train with a Spear?

A spear gives you a clear sense of reach. When you swing or thrust, you instantly feel the space between you and your partner. That awareness translates to better footwork in empty‑hand drills, because you learn to move before the point of contact reaches you. The long weapon also teaches you to use your whole body, not just your arms, which is a core idea in Aikido’s circular movements.

Starting Your Spear Training

First, choose a training spear that feels comfortable. A wooden or light‑bamboo pole about 6‑7 feet long works for most beginners. Make sure it’s balanced – the midpoint should sit near the center of your grip. If you’re at Norwich Aikido Academy, ask an instructor to check the weight; you want something sturdy but not so heavy that it drags your shoulders down.

Safety comes first. Always train on a smooth floor with enough space around you. Wear a training glove on the hand that holds the spear to protect against accidental slips. Start each session with a quick warm‑up: shoulder rolls, wrist circles, and light foot‑work drills. This preps the joints and reduces the chance of strain.

Learn the basic stance: feet shoulder‑width apart, front foot pointing toward the opponent, back foot slightly angled out. Keep the spear tip up and relaxed, not locked. Your elbows should stay soft, allowing the pole to flow with your movement. This stance mirrors the Aikido “shikko” stance, making the transition between weapons and empty‑hand work smoother.

Next, practice two simple moves: the forward thrust and the side sweep. For the thrust, step forward with your front foot, push the spear straight out, then pull it back to guard. For the sweep, pivot on your back foot while swinging the spear horizontally across your body’s center line. Do each move slowly at first, then add speed as you get comfortable.

After you’ve nailed the basics, try pairing the spear with a partner. Start with “push‑pull” drills where one person applies light pressure and the other redirects it using the spear’s length. This mirrors Aikido’s principle of blending with an attacker’s energy, but gives you a visual cue through the weapon’s tip.

Integrate the spear into your regular class by adding it to warm‑up drills or using it for kata practice. Many Aikido schools include basic weapons work, so you’ll find that the principles you learn with the spear reinforce empty‑hand techniques like irimi and shiho nage.

Common mistakes to avoid: gripping the spear too tightly, leaning too far forward, and forgetting to keep the tip up. These habits can throw off your balance and make the weapon feel like a burden instead of a tool. If you notice any of these, pause, reset your stance, and try again.

Finally, keep a training journal. Write down what you practiced, how long you spent on each drill, and any hiccups you encountered. Over time you’ll see clear progress, and you’ll have a reference for what to work on next.

Ready to give the spear a try? Grab a training pole, find a safe space, and start with the basic thrust and sweep. You’ll quickly notice better footwork, stronger core stability, and a new sense of confidence in both weapon and empty‑hand practice. Happy training!