Eskrima (Filipino Martial Art)

Eskrima, which is also known as Arnis [De Mano] or Kali, is the indigenous martial art of the Philippine Islands. Dynamic and flexible, with a wide range of training methods it can be practised by students of all ages and levels of fitness. Well known and respected as a highly practical weapons-based system, Eskrima is practised worldwide by civilians, law enforcement personnel and special units within the military. Eskrima usies training weapons [rattan sticks and daggers] from the earliest stages, alongside purely unarmed techniques. These training methods have been found particularly effective at increasing co-ordination and reflexes, providing a fast tract to developing the qualities needed for practical self-defense. The instructional section illustrates how the Eskrima martial artist is able to succeed in a wide range of combat situations involving fighting with both weapons and open-hands. Techniques, two-person flow drills, self-defense applications, training with specialized equipment, the philosophy of the art and 'self-defense and the law' are all covered in depth.