write a short speech on the topic arnis fighting for honor

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Arnis (Escrima/Kali): Exploring a Unique Martial Arts National Sport

• by Christopher Lequia

Arnis (also known as Escrima or Kali ) is a powerful and distinctive martial art that has become the national sport of the Philippines.

This traditional fighting style combines self-defense techniques and weapons based martial arts with a rich historical background, making it a fascinating and deeply rooted practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Arnis is the national martial art of the Philippines.
• It focuses on weapon-based fighting with sticks, knives, bladed weapons, and improvised weapons.
• Arnis includes open-hand (also known as empty-hand) techniques without weapons.
• The practice of arnis has been nominated for inclusion in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists .
• It has been influenced by various martial arts traditions from Indonesia, India, China, and Silat.

Article Content:

Arnis encompasses both armed and unarmed techniques , allowing practitioners to seamlessly switch between fighting with weapons and empty hands. This versatility is what sets it apart from other martial arts and makes it a unique form of combat sports .

The Filipino martial arts , including arnis, eskrima , and kali , have deep cultural significance in the Philippines. The art of arnis has been incorporated into the national sports arena and is considered a mandatory skill for the Philippine military and police. This highlights its importance as a practical self-defense system that has been embraced by the country as a whole.

The techniques employed in arnis include striking , kicking , grappling , and wrestling , providing a comprehensive approach to combat. In addition to traditional weapons such as the bolo , dagger , staff , and shield , arnis also teaches practitioners how to utilize everyday objects as weapons, enhancing its practicality in real-life self-defense scenarios.

Arnis is not only a physical practice but also embodies a philosophy of adaptability and efficiency in motion . Its principles emphasize the development of a warrior mindset and the application of combat sports and self-defense techniques in everyday life.

Furthermore, arnis has had a significant influence on modern martial arts, contributing to the development of hybrid martial arts and the integration of its techniques in modern self-defense systems . This cultural exchange has further enriched the martial arts landscape and fostered appreciation for the art and heritage of arnis.

Arnis (Escrima/Kali) is a captivating martial art that combines self-defense techniques , stick fighting , and weapon-based combat sports . Its historical origins, cultural significance, and practical applications make it a unique art form that continues to gain recognition and inspire individuals on a global scale.

The Origins and Influence of Arnis

The roots of Arnis can be traced back to ancient Filipino fighting techniques, which have been shaped through the influences of Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, and Silat martial arts .

Throughout history , Filipino warriors developed their own unique fighting techniques to defend their land and people. As the Philippines became a melting pot of trade and cultural exchange , these native techniques evolved and incorporated elements from neighboring martial arts traditions.

The result was a dynamic and versatile martial art system that we now know as Arnis.

Indonesian martial arts , with their focus on fluid and graceful movements, contributed to the flowing and adaptable nature of Arnis. Indian martial arts introduced intricate footwork and precise hand movements, enhancing the precision and strategy of Filipino fighting techniques.

Chinese martial arts influenced Arnis with their emphasis on power, strength, and disciplined training.

Silat, a martial art practiced in Southeast Asia, added its own flavor to Arnis with its swift and efficient strikes.

By incorporating these various influences, Arnis became a complete martial art system that embodies the spirit and traditions of the Filipino people. It is a testament to the cultural diversity and resilience of the Philippines, showcasing the ability to adapt and improve upon existing techniques while preserving its own identity.

Understanding Arnis/Kali/Escrima Techniques

Arnis/Kali/Escrima encompasses a wide array of techniques, with practitioners known as arnisadors , eskrimadors , or kalistas , who are proficient in using traditional weapons such as the bolo , dagger , staff , and shield , as well as various striking , kicking , grappling , and wrestling techniques.

This martial art form combines armed and unarmed combat techniques, allowing practitioners to seamlessly transition between fighting with weapons or empty hands.

The training in Arnis/Kali/Escrima emphasizes the mastery of traditional Filipino weapons like the bolo , a thick-bladed machete, the dagger , the staff , and the shield . Arnisadors , eskrimadors , and kalistas learn the intricacies of weapon manipulation , improving their speed, accuracy, and coordination in wielding these deadly tools.

The techniques involving these weapons are characterized by fluid movements, precise strikes, and efficient defenses.

In addition to armed techniques, Arnis/Kali/Escrima practitioners also develop expertise in striking , kicking , grappling , and wrestling . They learn various hand-to-hand combat techniques that enable them to incapacitate opponents using only their bodies.

The emphasis is on practical and effective self-defense moves that can be applied in real-life situations.

Arnis/Kali/Escrima training often involves sparring sessions and drills that enhance a practitioner’s reflexes, agility, and timing.

Through dedicated practice and training, arnisadors , eskrimadors , and kalistas develop the ability to adapt to different combat scenarios, making them well-rounded martial artists capable of defending themselves in any situation.

Arnis in Philippine Culture and Sports

Arnis holds a special place in Philippine culture and sports, having been nominated for inclusion in the prestigious UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists , and being a mandatory skill for both the Philippine military and police forces.

This national martial art embodies the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Arnis, with its roots in native fighting techniques, has evolved into a celebrated combat sport that showcases the Filipino people’s adaptability , efficiency, and warrior spirit.

Its inclusion in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists acknowledges its significance as a living tradition that symbolizes the country’s identity and fosters cultural exchange .

As a national sport , Arnis has gained widespread popularity and serves as a source of pride for Filipinos. It is not only a means of self-defense but also a reflection of Filipinos’ resilience and determination.

The discipline and skill required to master Arnis contribute to the personal growth and development of individuals who choose to embrace this martial art.

The Cultural Significance of Arnis

The inclusion of Arnis in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists recognizes its cultural significance as a testament to the Filipino people’s resilience, traditional fighting techniques, and the preservation of their heritage. This recognition provides a platform for the promotion and protection of Arnis, ensuring its continuity for future generations.

The Art of Stick Fighting in Arnis/Kali/Escrima

Stick fighting is at the heart of Arnis/Kali/Escrima, and practitioners employ a variety of techniques, tactics, and weapon manipulation skills to engage in this dynamic form of combat.

With a focus on weapon-based fighting , Arnis/Kali/Escrima utilizes sticks, knives, bladed weapons, and even everyday objects as instruments of defense and attack.

The art of stick fighting in Arnis/Kali/Escrima involves precise movements, footwork, and a deep understanding of timing and distance.

Practitioners learn to manipulate the stick with finesse and control, wielding it with speed and accuracy to strike, block, and disarm opponents. Whether engaging in solo practice or sparring with a partner, stick fighting requires focus, agility, and adaptability .

One of the key aspects of Arnis/Kali/Escrima stick fighting is the emphasis on weapon manipulation . Practitioners learn how to fluidly transition between different grips, angles of attack, and defensive positions, allowing them to seamlessly adapt to different scenarios and opponents.

This mastery of weapon manipulation not only enhances their stick fighting skills but also translates into a deeper understanding of combat as a whole.

Table: Key Aspects of Arnis/Kali/Escrima Stick Fighting

Arnis/Kali/Escrima stick fighting is not only a practical self-defense skill but also a beautiful art form that embodies the cultural heritage of the Philippines.

The combination of technique, strategy, and weapon manipulation creates a mesmerizing display of skill and precision.

It is a testament to the rich history and tradition of Arnis/Kali/Escrima, and its continued popularity as a martial art practiced worldwide.

The Philosophy of Arnis/Kali/Escrima: Balancing Combat and Self-Defense

Arnis/Kali/Escrima goes beyond physical techniques, embodying a philosophy that emphasizes combat sports, self-defense, and cultivating a warrior mindset rooted in adaptability and efficiency in motion . This traditional Filipino martial art is not just about mastering techniques; it is about developing a mindset that prepares practitioners for any situation, whether armed or unarmed.

At the core of Arnis/Kali/Escrima is the concept of combat sports, which encourages individuals to embrace the challenges of competition and engage in rigorous training. By participating in combat sports, practitioners enhance their physical attributes, such as speed, agility, and strength.

They also develop mental fortitude, perseverance, and discipline, qualities essential for success both in the martial arts arena and in life.

Self-defense is another crucial aspect of Arnis/Kali/Escrima. Its techniques are designed to empower individuals and enable them to protect themselves and their loved ones in dangerous situations.

The art emphasizes practicality, focusing on efficient and effective techniques that can be easily applied in real-life scenarios.

By studying Arnis/Kali/Escrima, practitioners develop the skills necessary to defend themselves and others, ultimately promoting personal safety and confidence.

Moreover, Arnis/Kali/Escrima cultivates a warrior mindset that emphasizes adaptability and efficiency in motion .

The art teaches practitioners to remain flexible and adaptable, enabling them to respond quickly and effectively to ever-changing circumstances.

It also emphasizes the efficiency of movement, encouraging practitioners to conserve energy and maximize the impact of their strikes and defenses.

By honing these skills, individuals not only become proficient in Arnis/Kali/Escrima but also gain valuable life skills that can be applied in various areas of their lives.

Arnis/Kali/Escrima as a Martial Art for Self-Defense

Arnis/Kali/Escrima is renowned for its efficient self-defense techniques, empowering practitioners to effectively defend themselves in real-life situations using everyday objects as weapons when necessary. The martial art’s emphasis on practical application makes it a valuable skill for personal safety .

One of the unique aspects of Arnis/Kali/Escrima is its ability to adapt to various scenarios. Its practitioners, known as arnisadors, eskrimadors, or kalistas, are trained to master both armed and unarmed techniques , allowing them to seamlessly transition between fighting with weapons and without.

This versatility ensures that practitioners are equipped to defend themselves in any situation.

In addition to its adaptability, Arnis/Kali/Escrima incorporates the use of everyday objects as weapons. This means that even in the absence of traditional martial arts weapons, practitioners can turn everyday items into effective tools for self-defense.

By focusing on practicality rather than relying solely on specialized equipment, Arnis/Kali/Escrima enables individuals to feel empowered and confident in their ability to protect themselves.

Arnis/Kali/Escrima’s focus on practical self-defense techniques and the use of everyday objects as weapons makes it a martial art that anyone can benefit from.

Whether you are looking to L earn self-defense for personal safety or simply want to explore a unique cultural practice , Arnis/Kali/Escrima offers a holistic approach that combines combat effectiveness with adaptability and empowerment.

The Influence of Arnis/Kali/Escrima on Modern Martial Arts

Arnis/Kali/Escrima has left a significant impact on the world of martial arts, inspiring the development of hybrid martial arts and influencing modern self-defense systems through the integration of its effective techniques.

The versatile nature of Arnis/Kali/Escrima, which combines weapon-based fighting and empty-hand techniques, has led to its incorporation into various martial arts styles, creating a new breed of hybrid martial arts .

One of the key contributions of Arnis/Kali/Escrima to modern martial arts is the concept of cross-training .

The practitioners of Arnis/Kali/Escrima have embraced the philosophy of learning from different martial arts systems, integrating their techniques, and adapting them to their own practice.

This approach has paved the way for the development of hybrid martial arts that draw from multiple disciplines, resulting in well-rounded and effective self-defense systems.

The Integration of Arnis/Kali/Escrima Techniques

Arnis/Kali/Escrima’s influence can be seen in the integration of its techniques into modern self-defense systems .

Many martial arts practitioners and instructors have recognized the effectiveness of Arnis/Kali/Escrima’s weapon manipulation skills, footwork, and striking techniques. As a result, these elements have been incorporated into various martial arts styles, enhancing their practicality and effectiveness in real-life combat situations.

Moreover, the cultural exchange facilitated by Arnis/Kali/Escrima has contributed to the evolution of modern martial arts.

The Filipino martial arts community has been open to sharing their knowledge and techniques, allowing practitioners from different backgrounds to learn and incorporate elements of Arnis/Kali/Escrima into their own practice.

This cultural exchange has enriched the martial arts community, broadening its perspectives and fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual growth.

A Legacy of Adaptability and Efficiency

The influence of Arnis/Kali/Escrima is not only evident in the techniques it has imparted to modern martial arts but also in its underlying philosophy. Arnis/Kali/Escrima emphasizes adaptability and efficiency in motion, teaching practitioners to be versatile and resourceful in their approach to combat. These principles have permeated through various martial arts styles, shaping their training methodologies and mindset when it comes to self-defense.

Embracing the Art and Heritage of Arnis/Kali/Escrima

Arnis/Kali/Escrima offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and practicality, inviting individuals to embrace its art and heritage for personal development and self-defense purposes. As the national martial art of the Philippines, Arnis/Kali/Escrima encompasses a rich tradition that empowers practitioners with a diverse range of techniques, both armed and unarmed.

The origins of Arnis/Kali/Escrima can be traced back to native fighting techniques in the Philippines, influenced by various martial arts traditions from Southeast Asia.

This amalgamation of styles has given birth to a martial art that harmoniously combines weapon-based fighting with sticks, knives, bladed weapons, and improvised objects, along with open-hand techniques.

Arnis/Kali/Escrima has not only garnered recognition within the martial arts community but has also gained international acclaim as it has been nominated to be included in the prestigious UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists.

This nomination underscores the cultural significance and value of Arnis/Kali/Escrima as a living heritage that deserves preservation and appreciation.

By embracing the art and heritage of Arnis/Kali/Escrima, individuals not only gain practical self-defense skills but also immerse themselves in a holistic discipline that nurtures personal growth and development.

The philosophy of Arnis/Kali/Escrima emphasizes adaptability, efficiency in motion, and a warrior mindset. It teaches practitioners to be aware of their surroundings, to be prepared to defend themselves, and to cultivate discipline and respect.

What is Arnis?

Arnis, also known as Kali or Eskrima, is the national martial art of the Philippines. It is a traditional martial art that focuses on weapon-based fighting with sticks, knives, bladed weapons, and improvised weapons. It also includes open-hand techniques without weapons.

Where does the name Arnis come from?

The name Arnis comes from the Old Spanish word for “armour,” while Eskrima comes from the Spanish word for fencing. Kali is the pre-Hispanic Filipino term for blades and fencing.

What are the origins of Arnis?

The origins of Arnis can be traced back to native fighting techniques in the Philippines. It has also been influenced by Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, and Silat martial arts .

What are practitioners of Arnis called?

Practitioners of Arnis are known as arnisadors (if they practice Arnis), eskrimadors (if they practice Eskrima), or kalistas (if they practice Kali).

Is Arnis incorporated into the national sports arena in the Philippines?

Yes, Arnis has been incorporated into the national sports arena in the Philippines. It is also a mandatory skill for the Philippine military and police.

What are the traditional weapons used in Arnis?

Traditional Filipino weapons used in Arnis include the bolo, dagger, staff, and shield.

What techniques are used in Arnis?

Arnis includes striking, kicking, grappling, and wrestling techniques, both armed and unarmed.

Source Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnis
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_martial_arts

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• Arnis The Philippines National Sport...

Arnis: The Philippines' National Sport and Martial Art

London Travel Writer

Arnis enjoys the status of the de jure national sport of the Philippines . It is a martial art characterized by the use of “swinging and twirling movements, accompanied by striking, thrusting and parrying techniques for defense and offense.” Having been handed down from generation to generation for centuries, the discipline hones the skill, speed, accuracy and agility of its practitioners.

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Arnis was developed by the indigenous populations of the Philippines, who used an assorted range of weaponry for combat and self-defense. Encompassing both simple impact and edged weapons, arnis traditionally involved rattan, swords, daggers and spears.

In 1521, equipped with nothing more than bladed weapons and their fearsome arnis abilities, Filipino islanders defeated Ferdinand Magellan’s armored, musket-bearing Spanish conquistador forces when they tried to invade.

When the Spanish eventually returned and successfully conquered parts of the Philippines, the traditions of arnis were preserved, despite its prohibition, in the forms of ritual dance, performance and mock battles. While earlier Filipino martial arts were influenced by Spanish colonization, the modern forms have been affected by the country’s contact with both the United States and Japan after gaining independence in 1898. Just over a century later, in 2009, the government of the Philippines declared arnis to be the martial art and national sport of the Philippines.

Culture and traditions

Arnis is otherwise known as eskrima , kali and garrote, and by even more names in different Filipino regional languages. Although Spanish influence had a pacifying effect on Filipino martial culture, the original warrior ethos has persisted and remains on the fringes of the art. Arnis “death-matches” were outlawed as late as 1945 yet, as Mark V. Wiley explains in Filipino Martial Culture , they still take place in private today.

The Philippine government’s declaration of arnis as the national sport has codified a clear martial culture. This should begin to develop an accessible story of Filipino cultural heritage that the outside world can grasp, like Japan did during the Edo period (1603-1868) and as post-cultural revolution China has done with Wushu .

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How it works

Like all martial arts, arnis is primarily defensive, encompassing hand-to-hand combat, grappling and disarming techniques. However, the fighting style also includes the use of bladed weapons and sticks, in addition to improvised weapons. A baton-like cane is the primary melee tool employed and the weapon used in officiated arnis competitions.

Competitive Arnis generally takes one of two forms: the performance-based anyo model or the combative leban . Anyo competitions are judged on the basis of the overall choreography of the performances, including the gracefulness, strength and force employed. Meanwhile, the leban form tests participants’ agility and reactions, as competitions are judged based on the number of strikes inflicted. Although most leban competitions exclude body contact, such as grappling, blocks and disarming an opponent using the hands or feet, there are some exceptions where full contact is permitted.

Arnis in popular culture: Hollywood

Close-quartered, fast-paced fights look great on screen and no martial style involves quite the combative speed of arnis—no wonder it’s so popular with Hollywood directors. The Bourne Identity (2002) features a kali / jeet kune do hybrid fight style when Jason Bourne encounters Jarda, the only other living agent of the terminated ‘Treadstone’ program. Vin Diesel and Jason Statham also engage in eskrima -inspired combat, using metal pipes and wrenches instead of sticks, in the final fight scene of Furious 7 (2015).

In Kick-Ass (2010), the eponymous character fights crime with arnis canes, while his vigilante partner, Hit-Girl, uses Filipino balisong knives. Meanwhile, Liam Neeson uses a combination of arnis, wing chun and silat to rescue his daughter from her French captors in Taken (2008). James Bond too subdues a knife-wielding assassin using Filipino martial arts in Quantum of Solace , the 2008 installment of the James Bond franchise.

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Arnis - The National Sport of the Philippines

Adam Bloszko

Swinging movements, striking and quick deflections, are some of the basics that involve the defence and offence in what the Filipino people call Arnis. If you have never heard of the sport before, this only means that you weren’t immersed deep enough into the culture of the Arnis Philippines.

Arnis is something that involves your reflexes and quick thinking, as it mostly emphasises on defending against weapons and being able to fend off your opponent with a stick.

Arnis can also be called Kali or Eskrima - both words are loaned from Spanish thanks to the Spanish origin given to it during the history of how Arnis came to be.

You might be someone who doesn’t know much about martial arts or someone who knows a lot - this is a gem of Philippine’s past that is still alive nowadays, living on through tradition and national pride.

History of Arnis

Our short history of Arnis in the Philippines will take you all the way back to the distant year 1521 to Filipino warriors that followed a tradition of the past. Fueled by that tradition, they were able to fend off Spanish conquistador squads thanks to their immense and smart skills in the martial art of Arnis.

Whilst the warriors were only equipped with bladed melee-based weapons, they faced off with Ferdinand Magellan’s musket-wielding men.

Magellan was later killed by a warrior from a village who was very skilled in the arts of Arnis Eskrima.

Arnis in the Philippines was since a tradition passed down generations in forms of dancing, mock fights and other mesmerizing performances. In a more recent 2009 the sport was declared as the national sport of the Philippines, thanks to its popularity and significance in Filipino culture.

One such notable person who knew how to extremely effectively use Arnis, and how to combine it with his extensive martial arts knowledge, was Bruce Lee, having been taught by a Filipino-American associate who was actually one of his closest friends.

Lee at first didn’t see eye-to-eye about the greatness of the style, but later integrated it into his vast knowledge and began to instil it into his array of fighting skills used in film and more.

Modern Arnis can be seen in the Philippines and even other countries - hosting numerous competitions and places for people to see and get inspired to take part in the sport.

In the past, many Filipino warriors have actually used Arnis to fight to the death with bladed weapons. The martial art was last used in World War II as a form of melee conflict between soldiers.

Nowadays Arnis has influenced some military combat training in emergency situations where you’d need to protect yourself with an empty gun or sword.

How it works, rules, and more

Being a mostly defensive form of martial arts - as the Filipinos relied on staying sturdy and preserving against Magellan’s men and himself - it is usually reliant on deflecting the other person’s movements and hits or disarming them.

It is played in a “ring” such as the ones used for any other form of martial arts.

In modern variations, competitors are meant to wear protective equipment such as thigh guards and more, covering the entire body from any serious damage.

However, there is a “kulata” version where competitors can wear less body armour but are subdue to more risk of injury.

A fighting stick or baton cane replaces the dangerous bladed weapons used in the past. Competitive Arnis comes in two forms;

Anyo - This type is judged on how graceful and well-executed the performance may be, taking into account how the force, strength is done. This is more performance-based and how beautifully the “combat” looks. Leban - This is the more fierce and competitive of the two. These competitions are based on how much strikes can be inflicted and gives off battle vibes.

A referee is employed to review decisions and ensure fair play between the two fighters.

To win a fixture of Arnis, one must display superior skill and movement to his or her counterpart and dominate as many rounds of the competition as possible.

No punching, kicking or takedowns are permitted, contact to the back isn’t allowed, and the referee is able to stop the play whenever something goes wrong.

The fighting is continuous until one or both weapons fall or if someone falls over.

What do you get from Arnis?

If you indulge with the sport and attend Arnis classes or take part in competitions, you’ll be able to coincide yourself with a number of increased abilities and advantages that the sport brings.

There’s a number of Arnis camps and classes that are located in the Philippines.

Fitness will be a large benefit- as constant movement and awareness will be stimulated to the deflection and relocation of your stick to different places very swiftly.

Even without a stick, your hands will have a better movement rate and you’ll be able to defend yourself from danger with quick and constant movements against your attacker. Arnis emphasizes some good techniques to defend yourself against knife and machete attacks.

Your whole body is expected to move as one- meaning lots of muscles will be involved with your activity, increasing not only your muscular endurance but also cardiovascular fitness within your body.

It is a great all-round exercise for health and there isn’t a certain amount of strength required to execute Arnis, but you are still gaining strength and benefits from it, meaning it is a win/win situation.

Arnis competitions and coverage

Arnis is usually part of an international competition hosted by the Bali Sports Foundation. They have hosted a “stick fighting” since 2013. The event is open to multiple schools, systems, clubs and more.

It is usually streamed on places such as YouTube for anyone who wants to witness the aesthetic and how Arnis is actually played. Not only Filipino people come to take part but also Indonesians, Australians, and more.

Currently, there aren't any professional Arnis competitions where athletes get paid but like most sports- it could see a big growth in popularity and its industry when its market gradually increases.

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ESSAY SAUCE

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Essay: Arnis – a form of martial art developed in the Philippines

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“Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinangaligan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan”

The quote means, “He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination” said by Jose Rizal, a known hero in the Philippines. Different sports developed in difference countries correlates to its nation’s history. The sport discussed in this paper is Arnis , a form of martial art that was developed in the Philippines and is currently being practiced around the world. The paper will begin by exploring the history of the nation, its cultural values and its history of sports. Furthermore, it will discuss the background, rules and training of Arnis. Lastly, the paper will talk about how Arnis and the cultural values of the nation correlates with each other. The purpose of this paper is to show how historical events influence sports in a given nation and how sports can showcase the cultural values of a nation that one individual or a community holds in their everyday lives.

National History

During the 15th century, competition for colonizing new territories around the world by different empires began. Among the list of colonized territory that the Spanish empire conquered was the Philippines. The Philippines was colonized by the Spanish empire for about 356 years, hence the named “Philippines”, after a Spaniard royal named, Prince Philip. For 356 years, the country suffered inequality and mistreatments by the Spaniards. The native people of the Philippines known as Filipinos, continuously fought for their independence from Spain but never succeeded due to their lack of army and resources. The Americans then entered a war against Spain and with the help from the leader of the Filipino rebellion group, Emilio Aguinaldo, the Americans won the war and the Philippines was ceded to the United States. Once again, the Philippines was controlled by another colony and was caught in between the war against the Japanese. The Japanese then invaded the Philippines, causing the Philippines to form an alliance with the United States to beat the Japanese. Finally, after the American-Japan war, the United States gave the Philippines their independence in 1946. After the continuous invasions which hindered the nation’s development. They struggled as a country to repair their nation and with endless corruptions in their government, their economic growth continues to be negatively impacted (“Philippine History”, 2018).

Geographically, the Philippines is a small country compared to others but because it contains about 7,107 islands and a population of more than 50 million, it has a tremendous amount of cultures, languages and variations within its culture (“Filipino Values and Culture”, 2005). Although it has many differences, the country shares similar cultural values such as family, community, discipline, strength and nationalism which was all greatly impacted from the colonization of Spain. Because the Filipinos fought for their independence for a long period of time, they became accustomed to relying on their families and communities as their support systems. They greatly value their relationships with their families, friends and community influencing their everyday lives.  Another cultural value that all the Filipinos share are strength and discipline. They value respect, whether it’s to each other, another race or the authority. When it comes to their livelihood, they share the same characteristics of strength, hard work, patience and determination. Lastly, nationalism is another important aspect of the Filipino culture and can be greatly seen through sports (Bernardo, Clemente & Liem, 2014).

Sports in the Philippines is a representation of all the values in a Filipino culture. Discipline and the characteristics of livelihood are seen through the athletes when training and competing. Due to their slow development in their economic growth, funding and implementing sport activities are difficult to achieve but through family and community, sports exist and are able to be played in some areas. The nation as a whole come together to support athletes to compete internationally and since 1920, the country has received at least 5 Olympic bronze medals in swimming, boxing and weightlifting. Popular sports in the Philippines includes badminton, boxing, soccer, tennis, volleyball and basketball (“Top Sports”).  In 2009, the Philippines declared Arnis as the Philippine National Martial Art and Sport.

Overview of Sport

The Philippine’s National Martial Art and Sport is Arnis (Yap, 2017). Arnis was strongly influenced by the Spaniards, its name coming from the Old Spanish for armor. It was originally named “Kali” and was developed by the native people of the Philippines during the era where they were under the Spanish rule. In the year 1764, Spain still having control of the Philippines, prohibited Arnis due to its fighting techniques. Nonetheless, Filipinos still secretly practiced it and continued to train to fight for their independence. After winning their independence from the Spain and the United States, they went through phases of building organizations and clubs of Arnis as a way to prepare them for future wars and invasions (Siguenza, 2013) Throughout the years, it became less of a combat training and more of an art that was passed down to future generations through rituals, dances and theater. Today, it is known as a sport, practiced and competed around the world.

Practicing Arnis begins with learning the basic twelve offensive strikes of the sport and deliberately practicing it over and over until it is learned. Then it advances to using weapons such as sticks, knives or swords, practicing with two weapons to one weapon eventually transitioning to no weapons and only using hands as the weapon. This sport greatly focuses on fluidity, rhythm and timing and is achieved through the act of discipline and self-control. After continuous practice and intensive training, the sport eventually becomes a flow of movement (“History of Filipino Martial Arts”).

Arnis is a safe sport and although it involves fighting, violence is not permitted in competitions and can lead to disqualifications of competitors. Violence that can result in disqualification includes disrespecting any of the referee, judge or opponent, attacking with great amount of force, continuous attack after opponent drops his/her weapon and using kicking, punching and takedowns techniques. General rules in the competitions includes bringing your own stick to competitions as well as safety equipments. The competitor automatically loses if he/she drops his/her stick three times in one round and loses one point if disarmed at any time in the round. Like previously mentioned there are no punching, kicking or takedowns allowed, especially any contact to the back. The fighting is continuous, but the referee stops and restarts the fight if and when a competitor falls to the ground or drops his/her weapon. Each fight consists of three rounds of 60 seconds each and 30 second break in between rounds. Each competitor can be scored up to 10 points by the judges and the person with the most points or closest or has 10 points win. Finally, the fight begins and ends with competitors saluting to judges and their opponent (“Arnis Stick Fighting, 2016).

Expression of Cultural Values

As previously mentioned Arnis was developed by the native people as a tool for combat against foreign enemies. Today, Arnis in the Philippines serves as a reminder of the struggles and hardships that the Philippines faced during the time where they were colonized by Spain. Though Arnis is played throughout several countries, Arnis in the Philippines is considered most authentic because it is practiced with pride and dignity. Arnis is comprised of several self-made or natural objects that also incorporate cultural values (“History of Arnis”).

The sport originally started off not requiring a field or a ring, it only required an open space for practice and as for the equipments it was practiced with hands or sticks. This allowed those on the lower economic status to participate easily and allowing the sport to be developed. Though Arnis has been around for centuries and it wasn’t until it was declared the Philippine National Sport that women were encouraged to participate. In 2016, the Philippine Sport Commission hosted the 3rd Women’s Martial Arts Festival, which was an all-female national competition (“3rd Women’s National Martial”, 2016).

Values of Arnis consist of discipline, strength, agility, accuracy and coordination. Arnis requires one to be quick and accurate to be most effective. The coordination of the individual allows them to make decisions without thinking making it instinctual. The individual that participates in Arnis also values foresight and must visualize movements ahead of time to out strike their opponent. Furthermore, the individual who lacks the courage to act often fail to dictate their opponents. In Arnis, it is important for those to better analyze the style of their opponent and formulate a defensive plan of attack to be the successors in the competition. The competitor who takes the most advantage of their opponent’s lack of judgment will win the match. Therefore, self-confidence is key in Arnis and can successfully predict when and when not to act having a direct impact on the outcome of the dual (“Values”, 2018).

Relationship to Personal Values

After learning that Arnis serves as a symbol and representation for the Filipino culture, I now understand why the Philippines choose it as their national sport. Arnis incorporates all the important cultural and historical values that Filipinos continue to carry and use in their everyday lives. The most important cultural value that my family and I share with Arnis is strength. The strength that we as a family hold comes from the hardships that we overcame in the Philippines and in the new country. I was lucky enough that someone in my family, my grandpa, somehow, through his hard work, managed to migrate to the United States for better opportunities. Back in the Philippines, my mom was an underpaid nurse and my dad only had side jobs and both was only making enough money for our basic necessities. Without the support from my grandpa, my family and I would be living uncomfortably and with the fear of not being able to eat or having money for medical treatments in case of accidents or diseases. Living in the Philippines as I remember was a continuous struggle for many people such as my neighbors. Their number one priority of every day was to earn enough money for food. Knowing how hard life is in the Philippines gave us courage and strength to better our situations. Although Arnis involves fighting, Filipinos are not participating for the violence aspect of Arnis, instead they are participating for encouragement, strength and support to fight their everyday battles.

As mentioned, Arnis is not only a sport but a significant symbol in the Filipino culture. Just like every other country, historical events can greatly impact one’s nation through its culture, economy and government. In this case, the Philippines culture was influenced by the Spaniards. The Filipinos were under the Spanish rule which allowed the creation of martial arts known today as Arnis. Arnis was created for the use of self-defense and combat to protect themselves due to the lack of resources and weaponry. Through the years, Arnis became less of a combat tool but as a developing sport practiced around the world. Although Arnis consists of violence, it is still considered a safe sport when competing due to safety equipments and regulations that must be followed when fighting.

As a sport, Arnis being created in the Philippines, could be given more attention to spread the Filipino cultures that it contains. Studies show, that although Arnis has been implemented in the physical education courses, it has not been correctly regulated or fully implemented by the instructors or the school itself (Batara & Flora, 2017). If Arnis was fully developed, it could potentially compete with other types martial arts and can gain more popularity around the world.

2023 update

• In 2019, the Philippine government declared Arnis as the country’s national martial art and sport . This recognition highlights the cultural significance and value of Arnis to the Filipino people, and also provides opportunities for the development and promotion of the martial art internationally.
• The popularity of Arnis continues to grow, with an increasing number of practitioners around the world. This has led to the establishment of international Arnis organizations and competitions, such as the World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation and the International Modern Arnis Federation .
• Arnis has also been adapted for self-defense and law enforcement purposes. There are now programs that teach Arnis techniques specifically for use in real-life situations, such as the Tactical Arnis program developed by Grandmaster Samuel Bambit Dulay .
• The development of technology has also impacted the way Arnis is taught and practiced. Online training programs and video tutorials are now available, making it easier for individuals to learn and practice Arnis from anywhere in the world.
• There have been efforts to standardize the teaching and practice of Arnis, with the establishment of standardized curriculums and certification programs. This helps ensure that Arnis is taught consistently and accurately, and also provides opportunities for Arnis practitioners to advance and be recognized for their skills.

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Home / Essay Samples / World / Philippines / What is Arnis: Understanding the National Martial Art of the Philippines

What is Arnis: Understanding the National Martial Art of the Philippines

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