Arnis (also known as Eskrima and Kali), is the national sport and traditional martial art of the Philippines that emphasizes weapon-based fighting with sticks, blades and various improvised weapons. In recent years, Filipino Martial Arts have become more widely known through its use in major Hollywood films like The Bourne Identity, and the Bond films.
Modern Arnis was founded in the 1960’s by Remy Presas, whose goal was to create an injury-free training method as well as an effective self-defense system in order to preserve the older Arnis systems.
Although, as in most Filipino Martial Arts, much emphasis is put on weapons, Modern Arnis also includes hand-to-hand combat, joint locks, grappling (dumog), and weapon disarming techniques.
As well as keeping the classes varied and interesting, this blend makes Modern Arnis particularly useful tool for modern-day self defence.
It makes for splendid co-ordination practice too, as training normally begins with two weapons, either a pair of sticks or a stick and a training knife. Arnis emphasises keeping both hands in use and never moving them in the same direction, and trains practitioners to become ambidextrous. Training this way develops the ability to use both limbs independently, a valuable skill, even when working with a single weapon.
Classes are taught by Maestro Eric Amada, who began his Arnis training alongside his Aikido before moving from the Philippines.
Eric maintains close ties with his Grand Master Rodel Dagooc, and Senior Master Rogelio Aguillon (now Sandakan Arnis) as his teacher and mentor.
Here in the UK, he is a executive member of the BCKEAI, a national body aimed at bringing together the very best teachers of each of the Arnis’ many different styles. One of the most respected (and liked) Arnis teachers in the UK, it’s great opportunity to have him start a class in the Stowmarket and Stowupland area.
The class caters for all levels of experience, and complete beginners are always welcome, as are students from other arts looking to supplement their existing skills.
