Mainly practiced using a weapon known as “Cudgels” is a West European martial art form known as Singlestick. This “weapon” based combat form is said to have originated from England. Apparently, the weapon used in this form of combat is usually a “wooden stick”. Furthermore, this style of martial art form has been developed mainly as a system of self-defense. Also, it is said to be similar to a French style of stick fighting known as “Canne de Combat”.

History/origin of the Singlestick:

According to the cultural history of England, this form of combat was developed to train sailors to use swords such as a saber and cutlass during the 16th century. Furthermore, it was under the reign of King George I and George II that a form of combat using “cudgels” became extremely popular all over the country. It was then during the 18th century that these combat forms became extremely restrictive due to the rules that were set up. Also, this style of martial art was supposedly practiced by former American President Theodore Roosevelt, and his friend General Leonard Wood.

The weapon used in the Singlestick:

The weapon used in this form of combat is essentially a sleek wooden rod which is about 36 inches in length and 1 inch in diameter. In addition, one end of this rod is said to be thicker than the other end.

The technique involved in the Singlestick and training availability:

In terms of technique, the fighters basically use a thin rod to compete with each other. Furthermore, the rules about this combat style have varied according to time. So while during the 18th century a fighter was permitted to attack any part of the body, in the 19th century only the upper body and upper part of the leg were allowed to be attacked. As for training centers/schools, there are a few available especially in England for those interested in learning this “weapon” based martial art form.

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