History
Martial arts have been around for centuries, and there are many different styles to choose from. One martial art that is lesser known but gaining in popularity is Eskrima, the Filipino stick fighting style. Eskrima is a very versatile martial art, teaching practitioners how to use sticks, knives, and other weapons as well as their hands and feet. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Eskrima and take a look at some of the basic techniques involved in this martial art.
Eskrima is believed to have originated in the Philippines over 500 years ago. It was originally developed as a way for the Filipino people to defend themselves against colonial invaders. The martial art quickly gained popularity and began to spread throughout the country. Today, Eskrima is practised worldwide by people of all ages and backgrounds.
In the late 1920s, Eskrima attained high popularity in the Philippines. In 1932, Doce Pares as a society was formed to promote the only original native martial art of the Philippines.
Weapons use
One of the things that makes Eskrima so unique is its emphasis on weapon-based techniques. In most martial arts, practitioners learn how to use their hands and feet for self-defence. However, in Eskrima, students also learn how to use sticks, knives, and other weapons. This makes Eskrima an ideal martial art for self-defence situations.
There is seven main components to the system made up of Empty Hand (Mano-Mano), Single Stick (Solo Olisi), Double Stick (Doble Olisi), Long Stick (Bangkaw), Knife Defense (Baraw), Long & Short Weapon (Espada y Daga), and the Long Blade/Sword (Sundang).
Practitioners must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to avoid serious injury when training. PPE includes padded protection for the hands, head, body, and headwear to protect the eyes.
Competition
In recent years, Eskrima has gained popularity worldwide, and competitions are now held in countries worldwide, including Australia.
Eskrima competitions typically involve two opponents facing off against each other in a timed match. Points are awarded for clean strikes to the head, body, or legs. Again, competitors wear protective gear such as gloves and shin guards for safety reasons.
One of the most popular weapons used in Eskrima is the stick, and sticks are often used in sayaw, or forms competitions.
Sayaw are choreographed routines that focus on the different techniques that can be used with a weapon. In a Sayaw competition, competitors will perform their routine in front of a panel of judges. The judges will score the routines based on a number of factors, including accuracy, power, and precision.
Eskrima sayaw provides an excellent opportunity for competitors to showcase their skills and demonstrate their mastery of the art.
Ancient Experiences
When we think of ancient shared experiences, certain images come to mind- tribes gathered around a fire, warriors going into battle. After all, sticks and knives have been part of our history long before the modern ages. But Eskrima, the national sport and martial art of the Philippines, is an experience that can be shared by people of all ages- even kids. And it’s not just the most coordinated children who come to life with a stick in hand- even the most uncoordinated seem to have an instinct for this martial art.
Part of the appeal may be that Eskrima is more than just a sport- it’s also a form of self-defence, and learning it can give kids confidence and empowerment. But even beyond that, something about the footwork and gestures involved in Eskrima seems to resonate with something deep within us and reminds us of our shared humanity.
In a world where we are often divided by race, religion, and nationality, Eskrima is a welcome reminder that we are all part of one human family.
Conclusion
If you are interested in learning a martial art that is both unique and practical, then Eskrima may be the right choice for you. With some dedication and hard work, you can master the techniques of this Filipino martial art.
Check out our classes now at Oceanic Martial Arts Academy in Townsville and find your inner warrior
Author: Craig Cruickshank is the head BJJ instructor at Oceanic Martial Arts Academy