Filipino Martial Arts: Where It All Began
Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) has a rich history rooted in the Philippines’ indigenous combat systems, influenced by centuries of warfare, colonization, and cultural exchange. Traditionally known as Arnis, Eskrima, or Kali, these weapons-based martial arts emphasized techniques such as stick fighting, but empty-hand techniques were also incorporated.
FMA dates back to pre-colonial times when Filipino warriors developed self-defense techniques for survival and tribal warfare. During Spanish colonization (1565–1898),, the practice was partially suppressed, yet Filipinos still managed to engage in martial arts throughdance and performance.
It saw a resurgence during World War II when Filipino resistance fighters and guerrilla forces used their traditional combat skills against Japanese invaders.
Today, this indigenous martial art is practiced worldwide and not just by Filipino martial artists either. It’s integrated into law enforcement and military training due to its efficiency in close-quarters combat.
However, it still remains a vital part of Filipino heritage, blending traditional techniques with modern adaptations.
Arnis vs. Eskrima vs. Kali
While they share core principles, Kali, Eskrima, and Arnis techniques are slightly different.
Arnis
The term “Arnis” is derived from the Spanish word arnés (meaning armor) and became widely used during Spanish colonization. Today, the classical arnis techniques are most commonly used by Arnis practitioners in the Northern Philippines.
Modern Arnis is often associated with structured training, competitive national games, and stick-fighting tournaments, making it more accessible in schools and organized competitions.
Eskrima
The term “Eskrima” comes from the Spanish word esgrima (meaning fencing) and is more prominent in the central Philippines.
Eskrima is often seen as a more combative and practical fighting system, with a strong emphasis on weapons training, bladed combat, and real-world self-defense applications.
It includes stick, blade, and empty-hand techniques but is often practiced with a more aggressive and offensive mindset.
Kali
Some believe “Kali” is derived from “Kalis”, an old Filipino word for a bladed weapon, while others argue that it stands for a pre-colonial indigenous fighting system. Either way, it is most commonly used in the Southern Philippines and internationally.
Kali is often considered the most traditional form of FMA, incorporating empty-hand combat, joint locks, grappling, and edged weapons alongside stick fighting.
It has gained popularity internationally, especially in Hollywood movies and military training, because of its fluid, tactical approach.
Modern Arnis Matches: Shining a Spotlight on Philippine Martial Arts
Modern Arnis matches have played a significant role in bringing this national martial art into the global spotlight, showcasing its effectiveness in a structured and competitive environment.
These matches, often held in national and international tournaments, emphasize speed, precision, and strategy, with competitors using padded sticks and protective gear to ensure safety. Unlike traditional FMA, which was developed for real-world combat, modern Arnis tournaments focus on controlled strikes, defensive maneuvers, and point-based scoring, making the art more accessible to a wider audience. It shares some similarities with Spanish fencing.
The rise of these competitions has not only preserved the legacy of FMA but also helped it gain recognition worldwide, attracting practitioners from various martial arts backgrounds. As a result, more schools and training centers have begun incorporating Arnis into their programs, further cementing its place as a respected and dynamic martial art in the modern world.
Filipino Martial Arts in Studios
Filipino martial arts techniques have long evolved beyond the battlefield and are now taught in modern studios across the globe.
Many martial arts schools integrate the Arnis, Eskrima, or Kali martial arts styles into their curriculum, emphasizing practical self-defense, coordination, and adaptability. These classes can focus on some weapon training, but they mainly teach empty-hand techniques, footwork, and situational awareness—making them highly effective for real-world self-defense.
Even kids can benefit from classes that incorporate these techniques.
How Kids Benefit from Filipino Martial Arts styles
Martial arts classes may be physical, but the benefits of this national martial art for kids extend far beyond this.
Physical Benefits
- Improved Coordination & Motor Skills. Filipino martial arts styles can enhance balance, agility, and overall body control, which is beneficial for growing children.
- Strength & Flexibility. Training includes movements that build muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, supporting your child’s overall fitness.
- Better Reflexes & Reaction Time. Self-defense drills and sparring help kids develop faster reflexes, improving their response to unexpected situations.
Mental & Emotional Benefits
- Discipline & Focus. Philippine martial arts (and any other type of martial arts) instill discipline, teaching kids the importance of practice, patience, and respect for rules and instructors.
- Confidence & Self-Esteem. Learning self-defense gives children a sense of empowerment, boosting their confidence in everyday life.
- Stress & Anxiety Reduction. The structured environment and physical exertion help children channel energy positively, reducing anxiety and frustration.
Social & Safety Benefits
- Respect & Teamwork. Kids learn to interact respectfully with peers and instructors, improving their communication and teamwork skills.
- Conflict Resolution & Self-Control. Filipino martial arts emphasize avoiding fights whenever possible, teaching kids how to handle conflicts calmly.
- Personal Safety & Awareness. Self-defense training helps children recognize potentially dangerous situations and respond appropriately, making them more naturally aware of their surroundings.
Weapons Training and Safety
Weapons training in martial arts is carefully structured to ensure a safe and controlled learning environment, especially for children.
Classes focus on age-appropriate, padded, or training-safe weapons, such as foam sticks, to teach coordination, discipline, and respect for proper handling. Safety is always the top priority, with strict supervision, protective gear, and controlled drills to prevent injuries.
While advanced students may learn about flexible weapons like training ropes or practice nunchaku, these lessons emphasize skill development rather than combat. Additionally, some classes introduce improvised weapons, showing kids how to use everyday objects—like a backpack or a book—to protect themselves in an emergency.
By reinforcing discipline, responsibility, and awareness, martial arts ensure that children gain valuable self-defense skills in a way that is safe, structured, and confidence-building.
Self-Defense Steeped in History
Filipino martial arts offer more than just combat skills—they are a living legacy of Filipino history. From ancient tribal warfare to modern self-defense techniques, Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali have evolved into structured and safe disciplines that instill confidence, discipline, and awareness.
For kids, these arts provide a fun and engaging way to build strength, focus, and self-protection skills, all while learning the values of respect and perseverance
