„Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.”
Pablo Picasso
“In the Philippines, the best known martial art is stick fencing. The stick has been the favorite weapon of the population since ancient times, and even short swords could not eclipse them. The first systematic martial art was Kali, which involved the use of swords, sticks, knives and other weapons. The art was also practiced in schools long ago, under the name of Bothoan. In 1521, Magellan was killed with sticks on the island of Mactan. Soon afterwards, Spanish colonialism recognized the dangers of the use of the stick and banned its teaching in 1764. The techniques of Kali were hidden in dances or practiced in secret with sword and dagger techniques borrowed from the Spanish.”
(From the book of Dr. Miklós Ujvari: The martial arts of Southeast Asia)
Kali is a fascinating martial art! It is incredible how much potential there is in a simple piece of wood, in a stick of about 70 cm. Practicing Kali develops coordination skills, balance, memory and creativity. It relaxes the practitioner while activating his neural pathways. It is a great way for people of all ages to develop a greater range of movement.