History of the Martial Art of Kali
Kali is an indigenous art whose origins can be traced back to the beginning of Filipino civilization.
It is a complete martial art that uses hands and feet as well as an interchangeable variety of weapons. While other styles do exist within the system (such as Arnis, /Eskrima, Kuntao, Silat, etc.), Kali is the ancestral art of the Philippines.
The history of almost any martial arts style is difficult to pin down because written records usually fail to accompany their beginnings. Kali’s history is no different. However, it is generally believed that the native Filipino styles associated with it were started by various tribes to defend themselves. It is also quite possible that these styles originally emanated from or were strongly influenced by martial arts from other countries, such as India.
The documentation indicates that Filipino Martial Arts styles were used when the Spanish Conquistadores arrived in the 1500s and generally differed based on the tribe or area of origin. As was the case with many martial art styles, the native practice of Kali or Eskrima was later hidden from the occupying Spaniards by disguising the practice in dances.
Kali Characteristics
Kali focuses on a fluid transition from fighting with weapons to empty hands fluidly, as there is always the possibility of losing or being without a weapon. Though there are several systems of Eskrima/Kali in use today, most teach elements of weapons fighting, striking and grappling. More aggressive maneuvers like pinching and biting are also taught.
Kali practitioners believe that hand-to-hand combat moves are similar to those with weapons; thus, these skills are developed concurrently. Some popular weapons used are the single stick (solo bastón), double stick (doble bastón), stick and dagger (espada y daga), single dagger (solo daga) and double dagger (doble daga). The most frequently used training weapon is the rattan stick of varying lengths depending on the style.
In the end, Kali practitioners are known for their lightning-fast movements and efficient footwork in wielding weapons.