In this post we’ll go through the step-by-step breakdown of the previous Tonfa kata video, Onami. This breakdown uses a series of freeze-frames from the practice video to show each of the specific moves in the Tonfa/Tuifa kata (form) along with descriptions and tips. It also includes a step-by-step PDF reference sheet that you may download and print. Along with the previous practice video, this step-by-step breakdown should greatly help you learn and practice this Tonfa/Tuifa kata as a supplement to your local instruction.
[Note: The photos below are freeze frames from the live action practice video, so they are not as perfect as if they were specifically posed photos for each move.]Onami Freeze-Frame Step-by-Step Breakdown
Onami is a kobudo Tonfa kata which focuses on repeating sets of basic blocks and strikes with the Tonfa along with a few kicks. This repetition helps drill the proper handling and manipulation of the Tonfa which takes more practice than the Bo.
Opening Sequence

Side to Side Sequences (West to East)


Forward Jodan-uke Sequence (North)
Backward Yoko-geri Sequences (South)



Side/Side & Back/Front Mae-geri Sequences (East/West, South/North)


Diagonal Open Strike Sequences (NW – NE)
Double Diagonal Striking Sequences (N)

Side to Side Sequences (East – West)
Second Set of Backward Yoko-geri Sequences (South)



Side to Side Mae-geri Sequences (W-E)




Closing Sequence (N)

Onami PDF Reference Sheet
The following PDF reference sheet is a distillation of all the moves in the kata to use as reference while learning and practicing the Tonfa/Tuifa kata. It is useful to help you remember what all the moves are until they are committed to muscle memory or for review to remember them after returning to the kata if it hasn’t been practiced in a while. I had created this reference sheet when I was first learning the kata myself. I hope it helps you as much as it helped me.
Download Onami Tonfa Kata PDF Reference Sheet
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