not only applicable in sparring but also in real-life 1. Warm-up and Stretching: Like any physical self-defense situations. Practitioners learn how to activity, warming up is essential to prevent injuries. defend themselves against armed and unarmed Arnis practitioners typically start with light aerobic attackers using the principles and techniques of exercises and stretching to prepare their muscles and Arnis. joints for the movements ahead. 8. Cool Down: Like the warm-up, cooling down 2. Salutation and Respect: Arnis usually begins with after training is essential to prevent muscle soreness a salutation or ritual to show respect to the art, the and promote flexibility. This may involve light teacher, and fellow practitioners. This might involve stretching and relaxation exercises. bowing, saying a prayer, or other customary gestures 9. Reflection and Discussion: Some Arnis classes depending on the specific tradition or school. end with a period of reflection and discussion where 3. Basic Techniques and Drills: Beginners learn practitioners can ask questions, receive feedback fundamental strikes, blocks, footwork, and stances. from instructors, and share insights from their These techniques often involve striking and blocking training experiences. with sticks (usually made of rattan or bamboo) but may also include empty-hand techniques. Overall, playing Arnis involves a combination of Practitioners repeat these movements through drills physical conditioning, technical skill development, to build muscle memory and coordination. partner drills, sparring, and a focus on practical self-defense applications. It's a dynamic martial art 4. Partner Drills: As practitioners progress, they that emphasizes adaptability, efficiency, and respect engage in partner drills to apply techniques in a for both the art itself and fellow practitioners. more dynamic and realistic setting. These drills involve controlled sparring with a partner using Arnis, also known as Eskrima or Kali, is a sticks or other training weapons. Practitioners take Filipino martial art known for its stick and blade turns attacking and defending, allowing each other to techniques. The rules and regulations can vary practice their skills in a cooperative manner. depending on whether it's practiced professionally or as an amateur. Here's a comparison and contrast of 5. Forms or Kata: Arnis includes predefined the rules and regulations for pro and amateur Arnis: sequences of movements known as forms or kata. 1. Professional Arnis: These sequences serve as a way to practice techniques in a structured manner and can be - Regulated Organizations: Professional Arnis often performed solo or with a partner. Forms typically falls under the oversight of specific governing incorporate a variety of strikes, blocks, and footwork bodies or organizations that regulate competitions. patterns. These organizations may include the World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF) or the International 6. Sparring (Laban): Sparring, or "laban" in Filipino, Modern Arnis Federation (IMAF). is a crucial aspect of Arnis training. It allows practitioners to apply techniques in a more realistic - Competitive Structure: Professional Arnis and dynamic manner against resisting opponents. competitions typically involve highly trained Sparring can be done with sticks, padded weapons, practitioners who compete in full-contact matches. or even empty-handed. Safety gear such as helmets, Matches may vary in duration and format, including gloves, and padding is often worn to minimize the timed rounds or until a certain point threshold is risk of injury. reached. - Protective Gear: Due to the full-contact nature of professional Arnis, competitors are required to wear - Instructor Guidance: Amateur practitioners receive protective gear such as helmets, gloves, and guidance and instruction from experienced sometimes body armor to minimize the risk of instructors, but the focus is on gradual progression injury. and personal development rather than preparing for high-stakes competitions. - Scoring System: Scoring in professional Arnis often involves awarding points for successful strikes In summary, while both professional and or techniques delivered with precision and control. amateur Arnis share similarities in terms of Judges may also consider factors such as technique technique and principles, the rules and regulations complexity and tactical acumen. differ significantly due to the varying goals and contexts of practice. Professional Arnis emphasizes - Refereeing: Matches are overseen by referees who full-contact competition with strict rules and ensure that competitors adhere to the rules and protective gear requirements, while amateur Arnis maintain safety standards. Referees may penalize focuses more on skill development and recreational infractions such as excessive force or illegal strikes. practice in a less structured setting.
2. Amateur Arnis:
- Informal Practice: Amateur Arnis is often practiced
in a less structured environment compared to professional competitions. It may be part of a recreational club, community center, or taught in schools as part of physical education programs.
- Skill Development: Amateur practitioners focus on
learning and honing fundamental techniques rather than preparing for competitive matches. Emphasis is placed on proper form, coordination, and understanding the principles of Arnis.
- Safety: While safety is still important in amateur
Arnis, the level of contact and intensity may be lower compared to professional competitions. Protective gear such as padded gloves and headgear may still be used, but the emphasis is more on skill development rather than full-contact sparring.
- Training Methods: Amateur Arnis classes often
incorporate drills, forms (known as "katas" or "anyos"), and partner exercises to develop skills and coordination. Sparring may be included but is typically less intense and competitive compared to the professional level.