Filipino Martial Arts
Filipino Martial Arts (FMA): A Legacy of Skill and Survival
Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) - commonly referred to as Eskrima, Arnis, or Kali—represents the same martial art, with terminology differing based on the region of the Philippines. As the national sport and martial art of the Philippines, Eskrima is a profound blend of cultural heritage, self-defense, and practical combat techniques.
​While Eskrima is practiced as a sport in modern competitions, it is far more than just a sport. It is a deadly and effective self-defense system, emphasizing hand-to-hand combat, joint locks, grappling, weapon disarming, and the use of various weapons, including:​​
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Sticks
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Knives
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Bladed weapons
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Improvised street weapons

What Makes FMA Unique?
Unlike many other martial arts styles, Eskrima begins training with weapons before moving on to hand-to-hand combat. This approach hones precision, coordination, and ambidexterity right from the start. Students typically start with double sticks or a combination of a stick and a wooden knife, focusing on keeping both hands in action independently. For example, one hand might strike an opponent’s head while the other targets their arm, emphasizing fluidity and efficiency.
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This unique training methodology builds skills that are as versatile as they are effective, preparing practitioners to adapt to real-life situations with or without weapons.
FMA in Popular Culture
Filipino Martial Arts gained global recognition in the 1970s when Bruce Lee showcased Eskrima in the iconic film Enter The Dragon. This was followed by his unfinished masterpiece Game of Death, where he famously faced Arnis master Dan Inosanto in a riveting display of FMA’s brilliance. These scenes not only highlighted the artistry of FMA but also inspired martial artists worldwide to explore its techniques.

Why Learn Eskrima?
Escrima is more than just a martial art - it’s a way to feel empowered and safe. Whether you’re looking to enhance your self-defense skills, develop ambidextrous coordination, or connect with the rich heritage of Filipino culture, FMA offers something for everyone.
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The bottom line? If you want to walk down the street with confidence, it’s time to start learning Eskrima!