The Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) are known for their brutally effective strikes that defend, and ultimately destroy the attack. FMA are an in-close martial defense system meant to defend against an attacker through limb destruction, joint manipulation, and anatomical targeting. The Filipino Martial Arts rely heavily on concepts, footwork, and reaction rather than prescribed techniques.
Footwork is an integral component of any FMA. As seen in Filipino Kun Tao, there is simple reliance on triangle footwork; inverted triangular footwork; secondary angular footwork; zone to zero pressure; proximity distancing; and bridging the gap.
One of the most important concepts in the Filipino Martial Arts is body and environment awareness. Simply meaning, one should always know their capability versus obstacle/situation. Additionally, sense of awareness for surroundings is beneficial in avoiding harmful or no-win situations. Conditioning the body and mind is paramount to best maximize one's ability to defend themselves in a high stress situation.
Blocking as an attack is central in the Filipino Martial Arts. Our best defense is often our offense. Even on a block, the FMA teaches to strike the attack. This strike can (1) prevent getting hit; (2) weaken the attacker and or eliminate the threat; (3) put the attacker on the defensive; and (4) allow for the attacked to be in control of the situation.
Striking in the Filipino Martial Arts is not flashy. Kicking to the head is only done after the person is dropped to the ground. The FMA relies on low-line kicks to destroy the limbs below the waist. Once the attacker has been lowered, then stomps and heel kicks to ribs and head are added. Striking in the FMA, especially with the hands, tends to follow the theory of soft target with hard strike; and, hard target with a soft strike.
The Filipino Martial Arts encompass many situations. The FMA are instructed and practiced with empty hands, empty hand versus weapon, and weapon versus weapon. FMA Concepts can be integrated into any existing martial art, but for full effect, study of the Filipino Martial Arts is suggested.
Footwork is an integral component of any FMA. As seen in Filipino Kun Tao, there is simple reliance on triangle footwork; inverted triangular footwork; secondary angular footwork; zone to zero pressure; proximity distancing; and bridging the gap.
One of the most important concepts in the Filipino Martial Arts is body and environment awareness. Simply meaning, one should always know their capability versus obstacle/situation. Additionally, sense of awareness for surroundings is beneficial in avoiding harmful or no-win situations. Conditioning the body and mind is paramount to best maximize one's ability to defend themselves in a high stress situation.
Blocking as an attack is central in the Filipino Martial Arts. Our best defense is often our offense. Even on a block, the FMA teaches to strike the attack. This strike can (1) prevent getting hit; (2) weaken the attacker and or eliminate the threat; (3) put the attacker on the defensive; and (4) allow for the attacked to be in control of the situation.
Striking in the Filipino Martial Arts is not flashy. Kicking to the head is only done after the person is dropped to the ground. The FMA relies on low-line kicks to destroy the limbs below the waist. Once the attacker has been lowered, then stomps and heel kicks to ribs and head are added. Striking in the FMA, especially with the hands, tends to follow the theory of soft target with hard strike; and, hard target with a soft strike.
The Filipino Martial Arts encompass many situations. The FMA are instructed and practiced with empty hands, empty hand versus weapon, and weapon versus weapon. FMA Concepts can be integrated into any existing martial art, but for full effect, study of the Filipino Martial Arts is suggested.