Description
Kali is an ancient martial art from the Philippines that emphasizes strongly on the use of weapons, mainly the Espada y Daga (stick and knife). Kali (also known as Escrima or Arnis) is sometimes described as "stick fighting", though the techniques can be used in empty hands the philosophy is to learn using a weapon first and than implement them into empty hands. Classes start out with a warm up using the Espada and the 12 angles of attack and then move onto techniques on both attacks and defense. From there we will move onto using the Daga and empty hand defense to the weapons.

The movements of Kali are fluid and circular, sometimes resembling rythmic dance. Footwork plays a very important part in the practice of Kali. The body can only move as fast as the feet will allow, and energy is generated throughout these movements.

The history of Kali traces back to the existence of a blind princess who lived on the island of Samar. This legendary princess was a master of Kali and could not be defeated by even the fiercest of warriors. She posessed an extraordinary sensitivity towards energy and life forces, and therefore could avoid and redirect any attack that came her way.

Definition
Martial art specializing in fighting with two baton-length sticks, with techniques adaptable to empty-hand or edged weapons. The terms "escrima" is thought to originate from the Spanish word "escrime", meaning to fence with a swoard--and is thought to have originated during the Spanish occupation of the Phillipine Islands. Often used synonomously for arnis and kali.