2. A. History of Arnis
One of the earliest known Filipino stick
fighting styles is Arnis, but the origin of it is
very difficult to trace, because of the many
races that settled and migrated in the
Philippines like Spain, India, China and
Indonesia, to name some, that influences our
cultures.
3. The exact date of its origin remains not
clear, however traces of historical evidence
reveal that arnis, an art of self defense among
Filipinos existed even before the Philippines
was under the colony of the Spaniards.
4. According to the history, Lapu-Lapu, the
first known Filipino hero, was to be the one
of the foremost masters of arnis. It was
believed that Lapu-Lapu had been training
his men with Arnis even before his
momentous meeting with Magellan and it
was in the battle of Mactan where the native
martial arts, was put into a real test.
5. B. EQUIPMENT
The stick used in arnis is commonly made up of rattan, but
other hard woods can be used too, like Yakal or Kamagong. It’s
24 inches long for elementary level and 28 inches long for college
level. It is 1 inch in diameter.
6. C. BENEFITS IN LEARNING ARNIS
You learn practical self-defense
Your upper body, arms and legs will become toned
You will increase your fitness and aerobic capacity
Parts of the body, such us your forearms, elbows and hands
will benefit from conditioning, making them more resistant to
pain and injury
You will become more flexible.
You will be able to use any weapon, even one you have not
used before.
7. It complements and enhances any martial art. It
can be learn independently from other martial
arts or grafted seamlessly into any form of
exercise you do already.
It doesn’t require expensive equipment
It can be practiced anywhere. Eskrima can be
practiced in a park as well as it’s practiced in a
gym.
8. It is fun. Because it requires training
partner to practice, it is a great way
to meet people.
It promotes a sense of nationalism
and pride as a Filipino.
9. D. CODE OF CONDUCT
Practicing your martial art with proper conduct is
just as important as achieving excellence in your
physical training. Correct etiquette should basically
create a positive image for you, your club and martial
arts as a whole. It’s all about practicing with the right
intent and fostering good relations. Most clubs have
their own rules and code of conduct which students
should adhere to. Instructors should regularly promote
these rules as part of the discipline that comes with
learning the martial art.
