Tahtib is a traditional Berber martial art that has been practiced for centuries in North Africa and Sudan. The art of Tahtib originated as a form of combat training and self-defence for the Berber tribes in the region.
Tahtib involves the use of a wooden stick, known as an asa, which is typically made from palm wood. The practitioner of Tahtib uses the stick to strike, block, and disarm opponents in a series of fluid and dynamic movements. The art of Tahtib also incorporates footwork, body movement, and grappling techniques.
Historically, Tahtib was practiced by Berber warriors as a way to prepare for battle and defend their communities. It was also used as a form of entertainment during festivals and celebrations. Over time, Tahtib evolved into a more structured martial art with defined techniques and training methods.
1966, Cairo, Egypt
Today, Tahtib is still practiced by some Berber communities as a cultural tradition and a way to preserve their heritage. It is also gaining popularity as a form of traditional combat sports in modern times, with competitions and demonstrations being held in parts of North Africa.
Several types were practised during religious ceremonies, processions and as sport or game and sometimes in fights in ancient Egypt. It is still practised in ceremonies especially during “Ramadan” (Islamic fasting month) where dancers using long (4′) rattan sticks in a dancing solo or in a mock fight.
The basics of Tahtib are very similar to those demonstrated by African Martial Arts Experts, this is no surprise, because of the link through Egypt. The term “Naboot” refers to the staff in both arts. The hanging guard and the overhead exchanges predominate these matches, with much faking and other stylistic elements that involve energy sensitivity and a counter-for-counter flow. It can be practiced in different ways:
1) It is practiced as a true martial art from horseback known as Horse Stepping
2) It is practiced as a true martial art on foot
3) It is practiced as a combative dance between men
4) It is practiced as a solo, more social dance by men
5) It is mimicked in a flirty or cute version of the real movements by women
6) It is also used in Streetfights or Gang wars in North Africa.
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