What Is The Filipino Martial Arts Called?

Kali, Eskrima, and Arnis are Filipino martial arts, comprising various fighting systems that originated in the Philippines.

These arts are known for their practicality and effectiveness in self-defense, as well as their emphasis on weapons training.

Kali, Eskrima, and Arnis can mean Filipino martial arts interchangeably, but context and region can give them distinct definitions.

Some general information about the popularity and spread of FMA:

FMA are popular globally, with practitioners from different backgrounds in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, and Asia.
According to some estimates, there are over 10,000 practitioners of FMA in the United States alone.
WEKAF and IMAF brought sports recognition to Filipino martial arts.
FMA are used by law enforcement and military worldwide for their practicality and effectiveness in self-defense and combat.
FMA have gained attention through their appearance in movies and TV shows, sparking further interest.

The Filipino Martial Arts: Kali, Eskrima, and Arnis

The FMAs are a group of fighting systems that originated in the Philippines.

These arts are known for their practicality and effectiveness in self-defense, as well as their emphasis on weapons training.

This blog post will examine the terminology and importance of the Filipino martial arts.

Kali, Eskrima, and Arnis can have varied regional meanings but commonly represent FMA.

Kali is a term used in the southern Philippines to refer to the indigenous fighting arts of the region.

The word “kali” is derived from the ancient Malay word for sword, and it is often associated with bladed weapons.

Kali emphasizes empty-hand techniques as well, and incorporates movements from a range of different martial arts.

In the Visayan islands, Eskrima refers to martial arts specific to the region.

“Eskrima” derives from Spanish for fencing, emphasizing the use of sticks and blunt weapons.

Eskrima also includes empty-hand techniques and grappling.

In Luzon, Arnis refers to martial arts practiced in the northern Philippines.

“Arnis” derives from Spanish for armor, emphasizing the use of sticks and bladed weapons.

Arnis also incorporates empty-hand techniques and grappling.

Filipino martial arts training starts with basic footwork and strikes, then advances to joint locks, throws, and disarmament.

FMA emphasize weapons training, with students practicing sticks, knives, swords, and farm implements.

In addition to the physical techniques, FMA also emphasize mental training, including discipline, focus, and awareness.

Students are often encouraged to practice meditation and visualization techniques to enhance their mental focus and physical performance.

FMA improve physical fitness, self-confidence, and self-defense skills in various situations.

Mental training in Filipino martial arts can apply to other areas like work and relationships.

The Filipino martial arts are a diverse and practical group of fighting systems that emphasize both physical and mental training.

FMA have something for everyone, be it self-defense, fitness, or exploring a new martial art.

So why not give it a try and see what you can achieve?

Here are three useful web resources related to the Filipino martial arts:

Minnesota Kali Group – Learn Kali/Eskrima/Arnis with experienced instructors through this comprehensive online martial arts course. Also the course includes video lessons, written instructions, and training drills, and is suitable for both beginners and advanced students.
FMA Talk: This online forum is a community of FMA practitioners and enthusiasts from around the world. Members can discuss different styles and techniques, share training tips, and connect with other martial artists.
Martial Arts Planet: Martial Arts Planet forum thread for Eskrima/Arnis features topics like techniques, training, and equipment related to FMA. All things considered members can share videos and photos of their training and sparring sessions.