Arnis, also known as Eskrima or Kali, is a Filipino martial art that emphasizes the use of sticks, knives, and

empty-hand
techniques for self-defense. This guide will explore the fundamental techniques of Arnis, focusing on strikes, blocks,
kicks, and double-stick movements.

Strikes: The Foundation of Arnis Offense

Arnis strikes are characterized by their speed, power, and precision. They are designed to target vital points on the
opponent's body, aiming for quick and decisive results. The 12 basic strikes in Arnis are often taught in a numbered
sequence, with each strike representing a different angle of attack.

Strike 1: Left side of the head attack. This strike is a diagonal downward forehand swing targeting the left temple. The
practitioner holds the stick with one hand at 1 o'clock and swings it in a slashing motion while keeping the free hand on
the chest.

Strike 2: Right side of the head attack. Similar to the left temple strike, this attack targets the right temple. The
practitioner holds the stick at 11 o'clock and executes a diagonal downward backhand swing.

Strike 3: Left arm or elbow strike. This strike targets the left side of the opponent's torso, aiming for the arm or elbow.
The practitioner extends the weapon hand and delivers a diagonal forehand slashing swing.
Strike 4: Right arm or elbow strike. Similar to the previous strike, this one targets the right side of the torso, aiming for
the arm or elbow. The practitioner extends the weapon hand and delivers a backhand slashing swing.

Strike 5: Thrust to the stomach. This strike targets the solar plexus, aiming for a powerful thrust that can cause
significant damage to the abdominal organs. The practitioner thrusts the weapon hand towards the target and follows
with an upward motion to cut through the opponent's body.

Strike 6: Left chest stab. This strike aims for the left chest, targeting the rib cage and potentially the heart and lungs. The
practitioner extends the weapon hand forward with the palm facing outward and the elbow kept up.

Strike 7: Right chest stab. Similar to the left chest stab, this strike targets the right chest, aiming for the rib cage and
potentially the lungs. The practitioner extends the weapon hand forward with the palm facing outward and the elbow
kept up.
Strike 8: Right lower leg strike. This one targets the opponent's right lower leg, aiming for the knee, shin, or ankle. The
practitioner lowers the body while extending the weapon arm with the palm facing downward.

Strike 9: Left lower leg strike. Similar to the previous strike, this strike targets the opponent's lower leg, aiming for the
knee, shin, or ankle. The goal is to disrupt the opponent's balance and potentially cause injury. The practitioner lowers
the body while extending the weapon arm with the palm facing upward.

Strike 10: Left temple strike. This strike targets the left eye socket, aiming for a powerful thrust that can cause blindness
or even brain damage. The practitioner extends the weapon hand forward with the palm facing outward and the elbow
kept down.
Strike 11: Right temple strike. Similar to the left eye poke, this strike targets the right eye socket. The practitioner
extends the weapon hand forward with the palm facing outward and the elbow kept down.

Strike 12: Head or clavicle strike. This strike targets the top of the opponent's head, aiming for a straight downward
overhead swing. The goal is to disrupt the opponent's balance and potentially cause injury or even knock them
unconscious.

Blocks: Defending Against Attacks

In Arnis, blocking is as important as striking. The goal of blocking is to deflect or intercept an opponent's attack, creating
an opportunity to counter. Arnis blocks are typically executed with the stick, using a combination of speed, timing, and
precise movements. [6]

Outside Block: Deflects attacks coming from the outside. This block is used to deflect attacks coming from the outside.
The practitioner holds the stick in a vertical position with the hand at 12 o'clock. The block is executed by moving the
stick in a diagonal downward motion, intercepting the attack and redirecting it away from the body.
Inside Block: Blocks attacks coming from the inside. This block is used to deflect attacks coming from the inside. The
practitioner holds the stick in a vertical position with the hand at 12 o'clock. The block is executed by moving the stick in
a diagonal upward motion, intercepting the attack and redirecting it away from the body.

Downward Inside Block: Blocks attacks coming from above. This block is used to deflect attacks coming from above.
The practitioner holds the stick in a horizontal position with the hand at 3 o'clock. The block is executed by moving the
stick in a downward motion, intercepting the attack and redirecting it away from the body.

Downward Outside Block: Blocks attacks coming from above. This block is used to deflect attacks coming from above.
The practitioner holds the stick in a horizontal position with the hand at 9 o'clock. The block is executed by moving the
stick in a downward motion, intercepting the attack and redirecting it away from the body.

Rising Block: Blocks attacks coming from below. This block is used to deflect attacks coming from below. The
practitioner holds the stick in a horizontal position with the hand at 9 o'clock. The block is executed by moving the stick
in an upward motion, intercepting the attack and redirecting it away from the body.
Vertical Block: Blocks attacks coming straight on. This block is used to deflect attacks coming straight on. The
practitioner holds the stick in a vertical position with the hand at 12 o'clock. The block is executed by moving the stick
forward, intercepting the attack and redirecting it away from the body.

Kicks: Expanding the Arnis Arsenal

While Arnis primarily focuses on stick and empty-hand techniques, kicks are also incorporated into the art. Kicks are
used to create distance, deliver powerful strikes, and disrupt an opponent's balance.

Front Kick: A straightforward kick delivered with the front leg. A straightforward kick delivered with the front leg,
aiming for the opponent's groin, abdomen, or chest. It's a basic but effective kick for keeping distance and disrupting an
opponent's rhythm.

Side Kick: A powerful kick delivered with the side leg. A powerful kick delivered with the side leg, aiming for the
opponent's shin, knee, or thigh. It's a versatile kick that can be used for both offense and defense.
Roundhouse Kick: A circular kick delivered with the side leg. A circular kick delivered with the side leg, aiming for the
opponent's knee, shin, or thigh. It's a powerful kick that can generate significant force and inflict damage.

Knee Strike: A powerful strike delivered with the knee. A powerful strike delivered with the knee, aiming for the
opponent's thigh, groin, or abdomen. It's a close-range strike that can inflict significant damage.

Double Stick Movements: Mastering Two Weapons

Double stick techniques are a hallmark of Arnis, requiring coordination, dexterity, and a high level of skill. Practitioners
use two sticks simultaneously to create a complex web of movements, blocking, and striking.

Redonda: A basic double stick movement involving a circular pattern of strikes and blocks. Redonda is a basic double
stick movement involving a continuous circular pattern of strikes and blocks. It's considered a foundational movement,
helping practitioners build coordination and develop a sense of rhythm with the sticks.
Sinawali: A more advanced double stick movement that involves weaving the sticks in a complex pattern. Sinawali is a
more advanced double stick movement that involves intricate weaving patterns with the sticks. The name "Sinawali"
comes from the weaving of palm leaves used in traditional Filipino houses. Sinawali drills are designed to develop
speed, agility, and hand-eye coordination.

Anyo: A pre-arranged sequence of double stick movements that are often used in competitions or demonstrations.
Anyo, also known as "forms" or "set movements," are pre-arranged sequences of double stick movements that are
often used in competitions or demonstrations. Anyo are designed to showcase a practitioner's skill, technique, and
artistry.