Whether you’re a rank beginner or experienced Cane Master, here you will find everything related to the art of the Cane and the empty hand as I have developed and presented to the martial arts world and general public.
As you probably know, the concept of using the cane as a self defense tool is ancient. There have been many who have introduced it as an adjunct to their respective martial arts. Some have taken the cane into the sporting arena and demonstrated the power and beauty via katas (forms) and have done quite well in competition. Still others are concentrating on taking the cane to special populations like the elderly or the blind. A wonderful contribution to humanity.
The latest “buzz” in cane self defense is Cane-Fu. A term coined by the media to describe the adaptation of the art of the cane to the senior population. Several cane instructors have taken adavantage of this media blitz and now “specialize” in teaching Cane-Fu to seniors.
I promote and encourage all of these approaches in presenting the art of the cane. However, it is vital that we remember that the art of the cane does not discriminate and was created with everyone in mind.
The American Cane Martial Arts (the term I introduced to describe the different ways of practicing Cane-Do) is still in its’ infancy. It is important to differentiate between the ways the cane is being presented by instructors and the Cane-Do Kai methods.
So where do you begin and how do you get the most of this site? It all depends on what brings you here. If you’re only interested in learning enough cane self defense to get you out of a scare, look into the civilian American Cane Self Defense (ACSD) courses. We offer these at our headuqarters in Miami, Florida in the way of 6 hour workshops and ongoing weekly classes. If you’re interested in the total martial art of Cane-Do Kai U.S.A., and you’re local, you’ll want to inform us of your intent to become a headquarters student or look into our live broadcast classes.
Everyone, regardless of interest level will want to reference the CDK USA DVD series. It contains plenty of material for all levels. This is perfect for those who do not have access to certified CDK USA instructors and would like to identify themelves as students with the headquarters. I believe in using all forms of instructional media and support distance learning. However, communication with the CDK USA headquarters is essential to the success of these programs. We are constantly updating our video librabry so make sure to check often for new instructional media.
On another note, those who know me on a personal basis know I am not one to “blow my own horn” or adopt a “holier than thou” attitude. However, I am in a position of responsibility as it pertains to this art and feel the need to step in and set the record straight when necessary.
I have run into websites that have blatantly copied and plagerized from my Cane-Do Kai literature verbatum. I have asked them to kindly reference my writings and concepts. I have no problem with others using my material as long as they acknowledge where they come from. Despite agreeing with me, they have not changed their literature. Instead they simply thanked me in their articles and left the inaccuracies they claim intact.
So, let me set the record staright for everyone from the mildly curious visitors to the hard-core leaders of the cane arts.
I confess and solemnly swear the following to be true:
I, Joe Robaina introduced the term “Cane-Do” meaning ”the way of the cane” to describe the martial art of the cane and the empty hand. The martial art and self defense system of Cane-Do Kai U.S.A. is the first to introduce Cane-Do as 50-50 complete martial art. That means it is 50% cane and 50% empty hand. The empty hand version of the cane katas and self defense applications are termed “translations” in this art.
Others who have come before me, and I give absolute credit to, added conditioning and therapeutic applications with the cane to their arts.
The Cane-Do Kai also contains these components which in many cases differ significantly from their methods. I also introduced energy Cane Healing based on Quantum Physics and the concepts of resonance and entrainment. My intial six-DVD series is the first to document many cane training methods and self defense concepts to martial artisits and the general public. Regardless of what you may read elsewhere, these are the facts and cannot be refuted.
I would like to once again, as I am in the habit of doing, thank those who have come before me and opened the door to what I call the American Cane Martial Arts. From E.W. Barron-Wright’s Baritsu, to Dave Mcneil’s Goju Shorei Weapons Branch, to Mark Shuey’s Cane Masters. Let it be known that these men have forever left their mark (and continue to do so) on the history of this art and are to be commended for their efforts. I am all for uniting with the leaders, (regardless of school or style) of the Cane Martial Arts and holding events that will further promote the art of the cane. Please feel free to contact me for this.
Lastly, I want to thank you all for your interest and support of the American Cane Martial Arts and vow that the best is yet to come!
God Bless, Ossss!, Namaste/Gassho,
Joe Robaina, Founder-Cane-Do Kai U.S.A.
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