Jogo+do+Pau



Jogo do Pau ("stick fencing" is a possible translation to English. Stick or Staff Game would be a literal one. //Jogo//, from the verb //jogar//, also means "game" in Portuguese) is a Portuguese martial art which developed in the Northern regions of Portugal (Alto Minho and Trás-os-Montes), focusing on the use of a staff of fixed measures and characteristics. The origins of this martial art are uncertain (see below). Its purpose was primarily self-defence, helping practitioners survive bad encounters with robbers and other aggressors. It was also used to settle accounts, disputes and matters of honor between individuals, families and even villages. It seems that, in the mountains of northern Portugal, this martial art was practised by many, many men especially those who had to travel frequently. Elsewhere, it was practically unknown, and those who did practise it were taught by masters from the north.

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 * This is some pretty cool stuff**

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 * Sparring**