Filipino Martial Arts E-Book

Peter A. H. Lewis

• Herausgeber: Crowood
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2016

Beschreibung

The indigenous martial arts of the Philippines archipelago are known by a variety of names including Arnis, Arnis de Mano, Eskrima or Escrima, and are widely respected for the development of combat-effective defensive strategies and skills. The Filipino martial arts are fast and dynamic and utilise a diverse range of training methods to augment the journey towards achieving advance abilities in defending against weapons-based or empty-hand encounters. Supplemented by over 320 colour photographs, this exciting book explores the fundamental, intermediate and advanced techniques of double and single stick categories that are standard across many systems of the Filipino martial arts.

Leseprobe

FILIPINO MARTIAL ARTS

Exploring the Depths

Peter A.H. Lewis

Foreword by Grandmaster

Reynaldo S. Galang

THE CROWOOD PRESS

First published in 2015 by

The Crowood Press Ltd

Ramsbury, Marlborough

Wiltshire SN8 2HR

www.crowood.com

This e-book first published in 2016

© Peter A.H. Lewis 2016

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publishers.

British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Data

A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library.

ISBN 978 1 78500 158 1

Disclaimer

The author and publisher of this book are not responsible in any manner whatsoever for any loss, damage, injury or any other adverse consequence of any nature that may result from studying, practising or applying any of the concepts, techniques or ideas and/or from following any information or instructions contained within this publication. The practice of martial arts techniques can be dangerous and too strenuous for some individuals to engage with safely and it is absolutely essential that a doctor be consulted prior to commencing such practice.

Dedication

To my parents Jean and Harry Lewis for the life that you have given to me and for the many years of sacrifice and guidance that have helped me to become a better person. To my teachers in the Filipino martial arts, Grandmaster Epifanio ‘Yuli’ Romo and Grandmaster Reynaldo Galang for providing my journey with depth, understanding, knowledge and endless enjoyment. To the late Grandmaster Christopher ‘Topher’ Ricketts, your friendship, guidance and support have enriched my journey greatly and will continually inspire me. To my wife Jenny and daughters, Marisa and Verity, your love and support are a constant source of inspiration to me. To my students who constantly strive to guard the legacy of the art and for being a source of constant motivation.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to training partners David Hand, Kevin Jones and Audrey Tyler for sharing the journey and keeping me motivated to explore creatively the Filipino martial arts. Deep appreciation to my teacher in the Filipino martial arts, Grandmaster Reynaldo Galang, for your considerable encouragement and support in writing this book. Respectful gratitude to my students, David Hand, Kevin Jones, Audrey Tyler, Jade Tyler and Jamie Orgee for sharing their technical expertise and support in the photographic content of the book. A huge thank you to David Hand and Marisa Lewis for the excellent photographs that are used throughout, with a special acknowledgement to Marisa for taking the cover photos. Finally, sincere appreciation to Kevin Jones, Verity Lewis and Sarah Littlehales for proofreading the manuscript.

CONTENTS

Foreword by Grandmaster Reynaldo S. Galang

Preface

Introduction

Section 1 - Sinawali

1Fundamental Techniques of Sinawali

2Intermediate Techniques of Sinawali

3Advanced Techniques of Sinawali

Section 2 - Solo Baston

4Fundamental Techniques of Solo Baston

5Intermediate Techniques of Solo Baston

6Advanced Techniques of Solo Baston

7Conclusions

Further Reading

Glossary

Index

A range of weapons used in the Filipino martial arts.

FOREWORD

A more appropriate title could not exist for this book on the Warrior Arts of the Philippines, better known as Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), than Filipino Martial Arts: Exploring the Depths. Known to and embraced only by select and discriminating members of the military, police and combative practices, the Filipino Martial Arts continue to grow in popularity throughout the world.

In aptly heralding the characteristic of this art with this intriguing title, Peter Lewis has indicated the many facets that are the striking peculiarity of this art. FMA is best described as learning characterized not by accumulation, but by accretion. Each layer of technique and knowledge is a contributing and reinforcing variation, application and simplification of past elements learned. As knowledge and experience is amassed, the elements become simpler, more efficient, more natural and instinctive. From mastery of weapons to simple and brutal empty hand applications, FMA develops a distinct persona within the practitioner.

In this book, Peter Lewis takes the reader by the hand and shares the many epiphanies he has encountered in his odyssey through these unique martial arts. Having learned, mastered and analysed the art, Peter unveils the many layered secrets, attributes and riches of this treasure trove known as Filipino Martial Arts.

I am pleased that Peter Lewis has taken the time and effort to write this book to record, preserve, and expose the Filipino Martial Arts as seen through the eyes of a dedicated disciple, practitioner and teacher.

Reynaldo S. Galang

Bakbakan International WHQ

Grandmaster – Bakbakan Kali

Canberra, Australia

PREFACE

This book is written with the intention of providing the reader with an opportunity to share in a journey of exploration and discovery of the Filipino martial arts that are generally known as Arnis, Arnis de Mano, Eskrima, Escrima or Kali, among other variants. I hope that it will encourage and inspire creativity, understanding and a deep exploration of techniques, translations and applications regardless of the system practised. The techniques and terminology used as a vehicle for investigation are from the Bakbakan Kali system as taught by Grandmaster Reynaldo Galang. Many techniques will be familiar regardless of the system studied and some may be new, but the overall purpose is to explore personal practices and methods and discover creatively the potential within the Filipino martial arts.

Friends and colleagues within the Filipino martial arts community will appreciate the vast expanse of knowledge available and the endless diversity of potential applications and translations of moves generally first practised with a weapon. It is way beyond the scope of any book to convey the plethora of opportunities contained within our arts and that journey of discovery is ultimately very individual and part of a lifelong pursuit.

The book focuses on two main and fairly generic aspects of the Filipino martial arts. The first section explores the twin weapon aspect widely termed as sinawali and that usually begins with the use of two sticks or doble baston. Consideration is given to fundamental, intermediate and advanced techniques within this category and the evolution of the system to embrace other weapons and devastating empty-hand application. The second section investigates and explores the use of a single stick known as solo baston. A detailed overview of fundamental, intermediate and advanced techniques within this group is provided, together with the identification to translate methods to other weapons classifications or to empty-hand scenarios.

The concluding chapter sets the path to a continued exploration and identifies some opportunities for further study of the Filipino martial arts. The framework of analysis and exploration is expanded to identify the route to ongoing discovery and evolution. I hope that you enjoy your journey within the Filipino martial arts, regardless of the system studied.

Peter Lewis

August 2015

Worcester, England

INTRODUCTION

The Filipino martial arts (FMA) are revered and respected worldwide for the development of a deep understanding of defensive strategies against impact and edged weapons and empty-handed combative attacks. The martial practices of the Philippine archipelago are known by a range of different names, including Arnis, Arnis de Mano, Eskrima, Escrima or Kali among others. These differences will not form the focus of this book and are seen as peripheral to the task of exploring the plethora of opportunities available within these unique martial arts. The distinctive training methodology adopted within the Filipino martial arts is the reverse of most of the counterparts from other countries in that training generally begins with the use of a either an impact or bladed weapon. This practice facilitates an early and immediate appreciation of strategies, concepts and techniques that are appropriate to defending against such weapon-based attacks. The methodology further enhances the necessary attributes for effective selfprotection applications such as mobility, speed, focus, accuracy, timing, adaptability, destructive power, explosiveness and mental agility.

De Cuerdas (rebounding moves) using double sticks.

De Cuerdas (rebounding moves) without weapons.

Exploring the Depths

The martial arts of the Philippines are often described as a ‘conceptual’ or ‘thinking’ martial arts, developing advanced skills and the ability to analyze, evaluate and adapt within an endless variety of combative situations. This high-level analytical development is central to the purpose of this book to explore the Filipino martial arts in a greater depth and to encourage practitioners to look beyond the obvious physical techniques as they progress and evolve on their own journey of understanding and creativity. Throughout the book, a technical overview of each technique is provided, solo and partner-based development opportunities using equipment are identified and translations to other weapon categories and empty-hand scenarios are explored. Far from being exclusive, exhaustive or prescriptive, the purpose of such detail is to encourage an open-minded and creative approach that will become unique to each individual practitioner as they focus on their individual needs.

Weapons Categories

The Filipino martial arts are renowned for the development of effective and efficient defensive and offensive strategies with and against a diverse range of weapons or empty-hand scenarios. Once proficient in the core elements of these dynamic and destructive martial arts, the practitioner can feel a degree of confidence in using almost any implement as a weapon. With this unique adaptability it can be difficult to categorise such a myriad of opportunities and this is not the purpose of this book. To provide a broad understanding of common classifications, weapons could be grouped into four main types to incorporate projectile weapons, flexible weapons, impact weapons and edged weapons. There may be sub-divisions with each classification that further define the overall scope of the Filipino martial arts. Projectile weapons may include barya (coins), bato (stones), siit (twigs) and a sibat (spear) that can be projected through the bodily mechanics and physicality of the practitioner. Other projectile weapons depend less on the physical attributes of the proponent but rather make use of equipment to enhance the delivery, generally in a more forceful manner. Some examples within this category can include a tirador (catapult or slingshot) and pana (bow and arrow or crossbow). The second group of weapons are those of a flexible nature and can include the panyo (handkerchief), bandana (scarf), Lubid (rope), kadena (chain) and tabok-toyok (flails). The next group of hand-held weapons possesses a hard surface and are classified as impact weapons. While not exclusive, this group contains a variety of sticks employed by the Filipino martial artist. Within this group are sticks made of rattan cane, bahi (palm) or kamagong (mahogany or iron wood) and weapons can include the commonly used baston (rattan cane of 710mm to 812mm in length), tungkod (short staff of 910mm to 1,200mm in length) and the dulo-dulo (pointed carabao horn or kamagong short stick of approximately 150mm in length). The “final group of weapons are edged or bladed weapons. This category is vast within the Filipino martial arts and includes a diverse range of single and double-edged swords and knives. Some examples of swords employed within this classification include the kampilan (long single-edged cutlass with a 635mm long blade), ginunting (a beak-shaped sword with a 500mm long blade), sansibar (a slightly curved sword with a blade length of 538mm) and the barong (a leaf-shaped sword with a 380mm blade length). Some of the knives within the edged weapon category include the kerambit (a curved or hook-shaped short blade), balisong (folding butterfly knife) and the baraw (dagger).

Use of Supportive Equipment

The development of combative techniques that are readily available at an instant requires time, dedication and focused effort to achieve. This process can be supported greatly through the use of a variety of equipment to provide focused enhancement of the various key attributes that collectively result in the improved delivery of the motion. This book will explore and incorporate equipment to focus on impact power, accuracy of movement, muscular strength development and accuracy with power in a more dynamic scenario. The development of impact power will be explored by using the heavy bag or a section of heavy shipping rope as a target for full power striking. Accuracy of movement can be greatly enhanced by performing the technique in front of a mirror at a slow speed to ensure correct alignment and trajectory at each phase of the technique. Developing muscular strength throughout the entire technique can benefit from its performance using metal bars, which gives the added benefit of increasing essential grip and wrist strength. Finally, developing fast, powerful and accurate techniques that can be applied in a more dynamic and combative situation can be improved during partner training with the use of focus mitts that are randomly presented as targets.

Use of a mirror to develop accuracy.

Striking the heavy rope to develop impact power.

Using metal bars to develop strength.

A Word on Weapon Alignment

As techniques evolve and delivery is performed with increased speed and power, it is essential to avoid injuries or loss of the weapon by maintaining structural alignment and stability throughout the entire movement. This is of particular importance during the execution of striking techniques and is best achieved by leading with the middle knuckles of the weapon hand to ensure blade alignment, even when performing the motion with a stick. The adoption of this practice not only enhances the structure of the technique but more readily supports the translation of performance from impact weapons to edged weapons with minimal modification of delivery.

BAKBAKAN INTERNATIONAL – RAISING THE STANDARD

Bakbakan International is a brotherhood of martial arts practitioners that was founded in the late 1960s by the late Grandmaster Christopher ‘Topher’ Ricketts and early members included Ding Binay, Rolly Maximo, Christian Gloria, Eddie Alicante, Rey Vizer and Reynaldo Galang among others. Bakbakan International is a place for sharing of knowledge, developing skills and testing ability through full-contact sparring and the constant analysis of combative methods. This elite organization maintains a strong commitment to propagating and enhancing the Warrior Arts of the Philippines through the constant efforts of a select and dedicated group of practitioners. Enjoying a long and well-established relationship with the late Grandmaster Antonio ‘Tatang’ Ilustrisimo, the techniques, concepts, strategies and training methods of Kali Ilustrisimo feature strongly in the repertoire of methods adopted by Bakbakan International. Dominant systems taught within Bakbakan International include:

Kali Ilustrisimo as taught by the late Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts.Bakbakan Kali Ilustrisimo as taught by Grandmaster Reynaldo S. Galang.Tulisan Knife System which is an offshoot of the Kali Ilustrisimo system.Bakbakan Sinawali which is a highly structured and advanced system of double weapon methods systematised by Grandmaster Reynaldo S. Galang.Sagasa Kickboxing System founded by the late Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts.Hagibis Grappling System founded by Grandmaster Reynaldo S. Galang.

Bakbakan International Group. (Photo: Reynaldo S. Galang)

Bakbakan International Logo. (Photo: Reynaldo S. Galang)

Points of Reference

Throughout the book a technical description of each technique is provided and directional movements identified. To support this descriptive element of the exploration, the reference points of abierta (open) and serrada (closed) are adopted. Abierta is an open position where, for example, if the weapon is held in the right hand then the starting point or chamber is also on the right side of the body. Conversely serrada is a closed position where the weapon is held across the body, for example with the weapon held in the right hand the chamber or starting position is on the left side of the body. Additionally, there can be a high (shoulder height), middle (stomach height) or low (waist height or below) points of reference. These standards are used to provide greater detail of the starting point, directional movement and the conclusion of techniques that may be less obvious in a photographic representation.

Weapon alignment when using a sword.

Weapon alignment when using a stick.

High abierta (open) position.

Low serrada (closed) position.

Terminology

The indigenous martial arts of the Philippines are present throughout the archipelago and have many influencing factors, including the use of terminology to describe or name techniques. With such a diverse range of local and regional dialects all having a bearing on the many systems of Filipino martial arts there is a need for clarity, simplicity and structure in presenting the techniques explored in a manner that is accessible to enthusiasts. It is not the intention of this work to present a system-specific overview but rather an approach to exploring in greater depth the diversity, complexity and sophistication of techniques regardless of the system practised by individuals. The terminology used throughout this book is that applied in the Bakbakan Kali Ilustrisimo system as taught by Grandmaster Reynaldo S. Galang. This selection is to facilitate a simple reference for the movement or combination of moves and to avoid the confusion of presenting the many available names for the same technique.

Structure of Subsequent Chapters

The remainder of this book is presented in two specific sections that explore the fundamental, intermediate and advanced techniques of the sinawali (twin weapons), which is generally practised using doble baston (double sticks), and solo baston (single stick) components of the Filipino martial arts. An initial overview of each technique is presented and includes details of the structure and alignment of each motion applied. This is followed by an exploration of solo and partner-based training methods that can enhance the development of the technique in relation to accuracy, speed, power and functionality in a combative scenario. Finally, opportunities to translate the technique to other weapon categories and empty-hand methods are identified and presented in a non-exhaustive manner with a view to unlocking the potential for further discovery throughout the practitioner’s journey.

SECTION 1

SINAWALI

The Filipino martial arts have many facets but perhaps the most impressive from the spectator viewpoint is that of sinawali (to weave or the pattern without patterns), or the use of twin weapons. The blur of rapid motion and the sound of doble baston (double sticks) clashing is captivating, dynamic, inspiring and mesmerizing. The practice of using double sticks not only facilitates the progressive development of enhanced co-ordination, but develops the naturally weak side of the body considerably while giving the practitioner advanced combative skills and strategies. An aspect that is less obvious to the onlooker is the natural ability to translate the techniques of sinawali into other weapon categories, such as the more advanced combinations of espada y daga (sword and dagger) or kalis kaluban (sword and scabbard). These advanced combinations enable the refinement of timing and range adjustment while moving from long to short weapon usage. Of great benefit to the practitioner of sinawali is the development of advanced and complex empty-hand skills through the adaptation of the stick movements. Through the analysis of the stick motions practised in sinawali, the exponent acquires the ability to block, parry, smash, destroy, deflect, redirect, lock or manipulate in a fast, fluid, explosive and highly effective manner.

Baguhan using double sticks.

Baguhan using the short staff.

Baguhan using empty hands.

This section of the book will explore some of the fundamental, intermediate and advanced methods of sinawali that are found in many systems of the Filipino martial arts. Within these three groups of techniques, a technical overview of each method is provided together with the identification of opportunities for development through individual and partner-based training methods. Finally, opportunities to translate techniques across weapons categories are investigated and adaptations to empty-hand methods are examined to provide the reader with a greater understanding of the scope of this fascinating component of the Filipino martial arts.

CHAPTER 1

FUNDAMENTAL TECHNIQUES OF SINAWALI

The importance of developing strong basic techniques is often conveyed during the martial arts journey by those who started before us. Within the Filipino martial arts, where training often involves the use of impact or bladed weapons, developing the fundamental techniques is especially important. This chapter will provide a clear and detailed overview of the fundamental techniques of double weapon training, known generally within the Filipino martial arts as sinawali. Common to most systems of the indigenous martial arts of the Philippines, sinawali is used as an early vehicle with which to develop excellent coordination skills with both sides of the body. In more advanced practice, sinawali develops highly effective combative skills, both with and without weapons and can easily be viewed as a complete martial art in its own right. With a focus on the basic downward X, upward X and C striking patterns, this chapter will outline the background, structure and development of each technique, as well as provide options for the translation of skills to other weapon categories and empty-hand defensive strategies.

Magbabayo – To Pound – Downward ‘X’

One of the most basic techniques from the double weapon category is the simple downward X motion, which is known by various names but for the purpose of this review is termed magbabayo. Derived from an agricultural application, the term magbabayo depicts the motion of a farmer using a large mortar and pestle to pound grains of rice. The strong action of smashing down with the pestle to crush the rice in the mortar is mirrored in both intent and structure when performing this most fundamental of sinawali techniques. While a very powerful technique in its own right, magbabayo is the foundation for the intermediate techniques of redonda (whirlwind) and bukang liwayway (sun rays) and the more advanced sinawali techniques of luha redonda (teardrop thrusts with whirlwind) and pluma bukang liwayway (pen defence with sun rays).

Structure and Mechanics

Magbabayo first move.

Magbabayo second move.

Magbabayo comprises two diagonally downward strikes using the same weapon. The first strike starts from the abierta (open) side at shoulder height and travels diagonally downwards to the serrada (closed) side to hip level. The second strike commences from the serrada side at shoulder height and progresses diagonally downwards, ending on the abierta side at hip level. Leading with the second knuckles to maintain a blade orientation, the first strike has the palm of the hand diagonally upwards towards the serrada side and the second strike, also leading with the second knuckles, has the palm diagonally downwards towards the serrada side. Power is generated by using full hip twisting during the execution of magbabayo. The first strike is preceded with a sharp and slightly downward twist of the hips towards the serrada side of the body to accelerate the striking motion of arm and weapon. Just prior to the second strike, the hip motion is reversed to twist slightly downwards towards the abierta side of the body, again accelerating the motion of the arm and weapon to generate power.

Methods of Development

Structured and progressive training are the roots of developing techniques that are powerful, accurate and can be applied instantly as required. This is never more essential than with the evolution of the fundamental methods of sinawali. With a focused and structured approach, core attributes, such as coordination, functionality, fluidity, timing, grip and wrist strength, impact power and accuracy can be developed. Training methods to support the development of magbabayo can include solo methods or those that use the support of a training partner. Both formats offer the essential ingredients for the overall development of the technique.

Magbabayo using a large diameter stick.

The first solo training method is the use of a large diameter stick for grip and wrist strength development. In this training method the magbabayo technique should be performed deliberately slowly to support the development of strength throughout the entire motion. It is important to ensure that the technique is structurally stable and this is achieved by leading with the middle knuckle of the hand to simulate a blade alignment.

Magbabayo bag striking.

A second solo training method used to develop strength and impact power in the magababayo technique is to strike a heavy bag. This training method is excellent for the development of precise body mechanics and technique alignment while striking at full power. Care should be taken when striking at full power because poor alignment could result in wrist injuries. When executing magbabayo on the heavy bag, full use of hip twist should be applied as well as leading with the middle knuckles for blade orientation during the strike. Impact should be made with the top portion of the stick.

Magbabayo striking with the same stick.

Partner-based training methods allow magbabayo to be developed against a moving target for accuracy as well as to gain a deeper understanding of how the technique can be applied. The first and most basic partner training method is where both practitioners strike magbabayo using the same stick. In this method, the right stick will strike the partner’s right stick and the left stick will strike the partner’s left stick. This method is very effective in developing range appreciation, blocking skills and the feel of correct alignment when making impact.

Magbabayo using focus pads.

Another partner-based training method is to have the partner wear focus mitts and present random, pad up targets to enable the development of accurate and powerful strikes against a moving target. This method develops very good range adjustment and appreciation, as well as accuracy and timing in executing magbabayo.

Translation to Other Weapon Categories

As a fundamental technique from the sinawali (double weapon) category, magbabayo is very flexible and translates readily to applications with other weapons. The first translation to be considered is to perform magbabayo using a sword. This method develops a high degree of accuracy of performance as well as being very much associated with the backbone of many Filipino martial arts systems. Until a high degree of skill is developed, magababayo should be performed deliberately slowly to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the technique, leading at all times with the middle knuckles or cutting edge of the sword.

Magbabayo using the barong sword.

Magbabayo using the short staff.

A second option for translating magbabayo is to use a tungkod (staff), which provides the scope to perform the technique with a double-handed grip. If striking from the right side of the body first, the tungkod is held at one end in a two-handed grip with the right hand highest and facing palm up. The left hand is below the right hand and is facing palm down. The execution of magbabayo should be structurally sound by leading with the middle knuckles of the hand in a blade alignment and should make full use of body twisting to develop power throughout the move.

Translation to Empty-Hand Applications

As a core fundamental technique, magbabayo is both fast and powerful, and can be translated readily into the empty-hand category. The technique can be used to block, parry, redirect, control or strike in a wide variety of scenarios. The first application is to apply magbabayo against an attempted grab technique using the forearm as the striking weapon. Assuming a right lead stance, as the attacker attempts to make a right lapel grab, smash into their inner forearm with a right abierta to right serrada strike using the little finger side of the forearm. This powerful gunting (limb destruction) technique is followed immediately by a second strike travelling from right serrada towards right abierta and using the little finger edge of the forearm to strike the attacker’s right collarbone area or right side of the face.

Magbabayo against a grab.