Kali

Kali is a weapon-based martial arts system of the Philippines that teaches empty hand after training in weapons. The Filipino martial arts taught at the academy are Kali and Silat. You may have also heard the names of Escrima and Arnis, as they are alternate names of the Filipino arts. Arnis usually has four areas and Escrima has seven. Kali and Silat within the Inosanto / LaCosta blend consists of 12 areas. Training includes many categories of weaponry as well as empty-hand training. The Panatukan is a unique boxing art that takes the student to another level in empty-hand. The twelve areas that cover the spectrum of the art are single stick, double stick, stick and dagger, double dagger, single dagger, staff and flexible weapons. These are the main weapon areas taught at Martin Academy. Students will begin training in single and double stick the first day of class.

Filipino martial arts can benefit anyone by enhancing sensitivity, coordination, speed and timing. Developed for mass attack as well as single opponent confrontations, the training will heighten the student’s awareness of their surroundings as well as teach them to utilize environmental tools in combat. Everyday objects such as umbrellas, books and bandannas can be used as an effective means of self-defense in the hand of a properly trained individual. Teaching awareness in dealing with street weapons enables the student to deal with weapons-based and empty-handed confrontations in a more proficient manner. The use of left and right-handed techniques develops coordination. Drills and techniques are taught in a fluid, nonrestrictive manner that allows the student to enhance their natural attributes and improve their sense of timing, speed, awareness, balance, agility and confidence. Students are encouraged to be creative

Kali is taught and practiced by both men and women in the Philippines and is a great equalizer for women or men dealing with an opponent of larger size. The Filipinos have a long history of women fighting in battles, wars and combat.