What are the Filipino martial arts?

Filipino martial arts, also known as Eskrima/Kali/Arnis, are a diverse and comprehensive system of martial arts originating from the Philippines. These martial arts are deeply rooted in the country’s history, culture, and indigenous fighting techniques. Filipino martial arts encompass a wide range of styles and techniques, including empty-hand striking, grappling, and weapon-based combat.

Here are some key aspects of Filipino martial arts:

1. Eskrima/Kali/Arnis: These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to Filipino martial arts, although they may have regional variations in terminology and emphasis. Eskrima typically emphasizes stick-fighting techniques, while Kali encompasses a broader range of weapons and open-hand techniques. Arnis is another term used to describe these martial arts, particularly in the Philippines.
2. Weapons Training: Filipino martial arts are perhaps best known for their emphasis on weapons training, particularly with sticks (usually made of rattan), knives, and bladed weapons. Practitioners learn to use and defend against various weapons in both single and double-handed configurations.
3. Empty-Hand Techniques: While Filipino martial arts are heavily associated with weapon training, they also include a wide array of empty-hand techniques, such as striking, kicking, joint locks, and grappling. Many of these techniques are seamlessly integrated with weapon techniques.
4. Flow and Fluidity: One of the distinguishing features of Filipino martial arts is its emphasis on flow and fluidity in movement. Practitioners learn to move smoothly between techniques, transitioning seamlessly between offensive and defensive actions.
5. Combative Applications: Filipino martial arts are practical and effective systems of self-defense, with techniques designed for real-world combat situations. Training often includes scenarios that simulate realistic attacks and responses.
6. Cultural Heritage: Filipino martial arts are deeply intertwined with the history, culture, and traditions of the Philippines. They have been passed down through generations, preserved by various indigenous tribes and communities, and influenced by historical events and foreign martial arts.
7. Global Influence: In recent decades, Filipino martial arts have gained popularity worldwide, with practitioners and instructors spreading the art to different countries. They are often integrated into military and law enforcement training programs due to their practicality and effectiveness.

History of Filipino martial arts

The history of Filipino martial arts (FMA) is as diverse and rich as the islands from which they originated. While records of specific techniques and practices are often difficult to trace due to the oral nature of their transmission, FMA has a long and storied history deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the Philippines.

Here’s an overview of the history of Filipino martial arts:

4. Pre-Colonial Era: Even before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, the indigenous peoples of the Philippines had developed their own fighting systems. These systems were integral to their way of life, used for hunting, self-defense, and inter-tribal warfare. Techniques were passed down orally from generation to generation and often involved the use of bladed weapons, sticks, and empty-hand combat.
5. Spanish Colonial Period (16th – 19th century): The Spanish colonization of the Philippines had a significant impact on the development of Filipino martial arts. The Spanish imposed various restrictions on the indigenous population, including bans on traditional weaponry and martial arts training. Despite these restrictions, Filipinos continued to practice their martial arts in secret, often disguising them as folk dances or cultural performances to avoid detection.
6. During the colonial period, there was also some cross-pollination between Filipino and Spanish martial arts. Filipino fighters observed and adapted techniques from Spanish fencing and knife-fighting styles, incorporating them into their own systems.
7. Resistance Movements and Revolts: Throughout the colonial period, Filipino martial arts played a significant role in resistance movements against Spanish rule. Martial artists, known as “kali,” “eskrimadors,” or “arnisadors,” used their skills to defend their communities and fight against colonial oppression. Some of the most famous revolts, such as the Katipunan movement led by Andres Bonifacio, utilized FMA techniques in their struggle for independence.
8. American Colonial Period (20th century): With the arrival of the Americans in the late 19th century, Filipino martial arts continued to evolve. During this period, there was further blending of indigenous techniques with Western boxing and other martial arts introduced by the Americans.
9. Modern Era: In the 20th and 21st centuries, Filipino martial arts experienced a resurgence in popularity both in the Philippines and internationally. FMA practitioners began to systematize and codify their techniques, leading to the establishment of various schools and styles. Today, Filipino martial arts are practiced by people of all ages and backgrounds around the world, and they continue to evolve and adapt to modern contexts.

Overall, the history of Filipino martial arts is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and cultural pride of the Filipino people. It reflects their struggle for independence, their resilience in the face of colonialism, and their commitment to preserving their heritage for future generations.