, also known as — , is the national martial art and sport of the Philippines.

It is a traditional combat system that emphasizes the use of sticks, bladed weapons, and empty-hand techniques.

Dates back before the colonization of the —, during those periods it was called — and the techniques of the art is focuses on bladed weapons fighting.

It was widely practiced throughout the archipelago; both nobleman and commoners were enthusiast and practitioners of the aid art. It was also taught in a SCHOOL LIKE TRAINING GROUNDS, which was called — along with military tactics

Historical Background of Arnis Pre-Colonial Roots Arnis traces its origins to pre-colonial times when ancient Filipinos used weapons like —3 for hunting and combat. Techniques were passed down orally and practiced during tribal conflicts.

Colonial EraDuring the Spanish colonization (1521–1898), native fighting systems were suppressed, but Filipinos discreetly preserved these techniques through

Historical Background of Arnis Modern Era Arnis gained formal recognition as the national martial art and sport of the Philippines in —. Today, it is practiced globally, not only for self-defense but also as a competitive sport and cultural art form.

(December 19, 1936 – August 28, 2001) was the founder of Modern Arnis, a popular Filipino martial art.

He published several books and videos on Modern Arnis and is recognized as the "Father of Modern Arnis".

Fundamental Techniques in Arnis

Weaponry: Single Stick (Solo Baston): A single — Double Stick (Doble Baston): Two sticks for — Bladed Weapons: — for traditional applications.

Basic Strikes Arnis has — fundamental strikes, targeting different parts of the opponent’s body, such as the —4

Defensive Techniques Includes —3

Empty-Hand Combat Arnis practitioners also learn —3 for situations where weapons are unavailable.

Cultural Significance Arnis is a symbol of — reflecting centuries of evolution in martial arts. Arnis is often showcased in cultural festivals, where techniques are stylized into — performances. It is part of the — in many Philippine schools and is a popular competitive sport in tournaments worldwide.

Key Values Promoted by Arnis

: Regular practice builds focus and commitment.

: Practitioners honor their instructors, partners, and opponents.

: Training instills the ability to adapt and overcome challenges.

Modern Applications

Practical techniques for real-world scenarios, including disarming an attacker.

Governed by organizations like the National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL), with competitions involving sparring, forms (anyo), and weapon demonstration.

Some Arnis techniques are integrated into training programs for soldiers and police officers.

Variations of Arnis

: Focuses on close-range combat.

: Developed by Remy Presas, it combines traditional techniques with modern innovations.

The 12 Fundamental Strikes of Arnis

Target: . A diagonal downward strike designed to INCAPACITATE by targeting the opponent's upper body.

Target: —. Mirrors the first strike but targets the opposite side for balance and versatility.

Target: — Aimed to weaken the opponent's upper arm or disrupt their balance.

Target: Similar to the third strike but attacks the opposite side, preventing PREDICTABILITY.

Target: . A direct thrust intended to DISRUPT BREATHING or unbalance the opponent.

Target: . A powerful forward strike aimed to PUSH the opponent BACK or IMMOBILIZE them.

Target: . A low strike intended to immobilize or RESTRICT MOVEMENT by targeting the LOWER EXTREMITIES.

Target: Complements the seventh strike, targeting the opposite leg for versatility in disabling the opponent.

Target: Similar to the ninth strike but focuses on the opposite side, ensuring thorough coverage of attack zones.

Target: Similar to the ninth strike but focuses on the opposite side, ensuring thorough coverage of attack zones.

Target: . A DOWNWARD strike aimed to incapacitate or DISORIENT the opponent by targeting the crown of the head.

Target: A PRECISE AND POWERFUL thrust aimed at NEUTRALIZING the opponent swiftly

Proper Stance and Stick Position Stick Angle Hold the stick — across your body when in a guard position. This allows quick transition between —2.

Hand Positioning — grips the stick. — stays free and ready for other actions, like trapping or controlling the opponent

To defend against strikes aimed at the left temple. Raise the weapon or arm diagonally across your body with the stick (baston) — to intercept the attack.

To protect the right temple from strikes. Raise the weapon or arm diagonally across to the —, positioning the stick to block.

To defend the left shoulder area. Angle the stick or arm to block an attack targeting the left shoulder.

To guard the right shoulder Position the stick or arm to intercept an attack coming towards the right shoulder

To block thrusting attacks aimed at the stomach or midsection. Place the stick horizontally or diagonally in front of your body to deflect the strike.

To protect the left chest area. Move the stick or arm to deflect an attack directed at the left chest.

- To defend the right chest area. - Use the same principle as the left chest block, but on the right side.

- To defend against strikes targeting the right knee. Lower the stick diagonally to intercept the attack.

To guard the left knee from strikes. - Mirror the movement of the right knee block on the left side.

To intercept strikes aimed at the left eye. - Position the stick or arm upward at an angle to deflect the strike.

- To protect the right eye from attacks. - Use the same principle as the left eye block but on the right side.

- A versatile block to defend against downward or overhead strikes. Raise the stick diagonally upward like opening an umbrella, deflecting the attack away.

BLOCKS

Arnis Stances

A RELAXED stance used as a neutral starting position.

A PREPARATORY stance for immediate movement.

A stance used for offensive strikes or advancing.

A defensive stance used for retreating or evading attacks.

A WIDE STANCE used for STRONG defensive blocks and strikes.

A stance used to SHIFT WEIGHT LATERALLY for strikes or evasions

A light stance used for quick movements or deception.