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ASL fu:
Defending yourself using American Sign Language
Definition: "ASL fu"
ASL fu is a martial art based on using American Sign Language.
"ASL fu" was founded by Dr. Bill Vicars and Sean Christopher Benson.
ASL fu kata consists of various signs and signed phrases that allow practitioners to defend themselves from attackers.
Example: Wonderful! But never on Sunday!
Gloss: WONDERFUL BUT NEVER DURING SUNDAY!
Certain ASL signs are specifically mastered to respond to certain types of attacks or aggression.
For example:
WONDERFUL -- is good for pushing an attacker away.
NEVER -- is good for blocking certain kicks
SUNDAY-[circular-version] -- is good for deflecting blows or breaking free of grabs
COMMUTE is good for striking your opponent
DAY-- is good for deflecting punches
YOU -- is good for pinpoint strikes
REFUSE -- is good for breaking away from wrist grabs
The true "art" in "ASL fu" consists of knowing the proper inflections (modifications in speed, direction, distance, and forcefulness) of these signs and typically requires years to master..
Warning: Without proper "ASL fu" training such inflected signing will accomplish little more than just waiving your arms around -- and may even be dangerous.
"ASL fu" should be treated with respect. Other than to actively defend oneself from an attacker, "ASL fu" should only be used during carefully planned public exhibition matches, officially sanctioned competitive events, or participation in an organized continuing education experience under responsible sponsorship, capable direction and qualified instruction.
Notes:
Also see: Hazards of ASL
Also see: Bo Staff
For those of you too young to know about "wax on, wax off" see: Wax on, wax off: https://youtu.be/SMCsXl9SGgY?t=92
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ASL resources by Lifeprint.com © Dr. William Vicars