Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) is a centuries-old martial art originating in the Philippines. FMA has its roots in defending the family’s property and especially its members. It is not just a physical activity, but also an all-encompassing approach to self-defense that includes weapons, spiritual practices, and mental training. Through its combination of techniques, Filipino martial arts provides practitioners with a range of skills to both protect themselves and their families, as well as develop their own personal growth. In this article, we explore the history and principles behind Filipino martial arts and how they can be used for self-defense today.
What is Filipino Martial Arts?
Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) is a traditional fighting system that originated in the Philippines. It is known for its use of both armed and unarmed combat techniques. FMA is often described as a “complete system” because it encompasses a wide range of disciplines.
The History of Filipino Martial Arts
Filipino martial arts have their origins in the Philippines, specifically in the defense of the family and its members. The history of Filipino martial arts is often traced back to the Philippine Islands’ history of colonization and conflict. There were many different styles of martial arts that developed on the islands, each with its own unique methods and techniques.
The earliest recorded mention of Filipino martial arts dates back to the 15th century when Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi observed local tribesmen using sticks and knives in combat. In the 17th century, another Spanish explorer, Francisco Xavier Mariano Phelan, noted that the native tribesmen were very skilled in hand-to-hand combat and weaponry.
During the Philippine Revolution of 1896-1898, many different styles of martial arts were used by revolutionaries against Spanish colonial forces. After 1898, when the Philippines became a US territory, American military personnel were exposed to Filipino martial arts and began to train in them. During World War II, Filipino troops trained in various martial arts styles fought against Japanese invaders.
After 1946, when the Philippines gained independence from the United States, many different schools and organizations devoted to teaching Filipino martial arts sprang up all over the country. Today, there are numerous schools and practitioners of these ancient fighting Arts
The Different Types of Filipino Martial Arts
There are many different types of Filipino martial arts, each with its own unique history and purpose. The most popular and well-known type is Arnis, which originated in the Philippines as a way to defend against invaders. Other popular types include Eskrima, which is focused on stick fighting, and Kali, which uses knives and other sharp weapons.
Overall, there are many different types of Filipino martial arts, each with its own unique history and purpose. Whether you’re looking for a way to defend yourself or just want to learn something new, there’s sure to be a style that fits your needs.
The Berlin Kali School`s FMA style is orientated to Pekiti Tirsia Kali, because of the blade orientation of the Kali style approach rather than the stick orientation of Arnis and Eskima.
Pekiti Tirsia Kali- is a style created by Grandtuhon Leo T. Gaje of Filipino martial art focused on knife fighting, but it also incorporates other weapons such as sticks and swords. It emphasizes the use of counter-offensive Methods and deception to defeat an opponent.
The Benefits of Filipino Martial Arts
Filipino Martial Arts are not only about self-defense. It also teaches respect, discipline, and confidence. FMA has its origins in defending the property of the family and especially the members of the family. The benefits of Filipino Martial Arts training go beyond self-defense. It helps instill values that are important in everyday life.
Discipline
FMA is a great way to learn discipline and how to stay focused on the task at hand. The drills and techniques require intense concentration and practice over time to master them.
Respect
FMA teaches respect for yourself and others. It teaches respect for your opponent in sparring and respect for the arts themselves. This helps build self-confidence and respect for others as well.
Strength
Training in FMA requires strength, agility, coordination, and flexibility as you practice the various forms of martial arts. This strengthens both your mind and body, improving overall health as well as helping you become more alert and coordinated in everyday life situations.
Self-Defense
Many people take up FMA to learn self-defense skills that can be used in dangerous situations if ever needed. With the right teaching and guidance, Filipino Martial Arts can give people the confidence to protect themselves in high-pressure situations like muggings or robberies when all other options have failed.
