Deceptively simple in approach, the principles and concepts that Modern Arnis teaches are universal in scope. From American Kenpo to Bruce Lee’s Jun Fan many “modern” martial arts have borrowed significantly from the teachings of the Filipino Martial Arts. Arnis is often described as a martial art for martial artists.
The word “Arnis” comes from the Spanish phrase, “Arnis de mano,” harness of the hand, which was used to describe this combat art. Arnis is generally regarded as the mother, or root, martial art for the other Filipino combat arts of Kali and Escrima and as such is one of the most popular martial arts in the Philippines.
Arnis techniques are typically executed empty-handed, or with double sticks machetes or knives, or a combination using all the above. The student begins by learning basic striking, parrying, and trapping techniques and gradually progresses to more intricate two man drills and free sparring, again using all the weapons mentioned. Arnis is serious form of self-defense where the student most learn mental, emotional and spiritual qualities to become an effective martial artist.
Close to extinction Arnis was revived in the 1950’s and 60’s by the dedicated efforts of Remy Presas, the founder of Modern Arnis. During this revival period Remy Presas made some significant changes and improvements to the system. Now Modern Arnis is a flourishing art with thousands of practitioners world wide.