EskrimaKaliArnis

Eskrima, Kali, and Arnis are umbrella terms for Philippine martial arts that emphasize weapon-based combat, typically involving sticks and knives, as well as empty-hand techniques. The three names reflect regional usage and historical development, but are often used interchangeably to describe a family of arts that prioritizes practical defense, speed, and fluid movement.

Origins lie in the Philippines’ diverse fighting traditions, which blended indigenous practices with influences from Spanish fencing during the colonial period and later martial-arts exchanges. In the 20th century, practitioners and organizations began codifying curricula and terminology. Modern Arnis, developed by Remy Presas, helped popularize the arts worldwide, particularly in the United States, while other lineages contributed to regional styles and teaching methods.

Techniques center on weapon work with rattan sticks, as well as edged weapons and empty-hand responses. Students learn stance, footwork, angles of attack and defense, and disarming or controlling an opponent. Common drills include sinawali (two-stick weaving patterns), basic strikes and blocks, and controlled sparring. Training often progresses from basics to contact drills and sport formats in some schools.

Today Eskrima, Kali, and Arnis are practiced globally, with many schools preserving regional styles while sharing a common emphasis on safety, adaptability, and practical self-defense. Terminology may vary, but most instructors stress coordinated use of hands and feet, body mechanics, and situational awareness.