Kali, Eskrima, Arnis

Kali, also known as Eskrima, Escrima or Arnis, is a martial art from the Philippines.

Although best known for stick fighting using bastons – wooden kali sticks – this Filipino martial art is a complete fighting system that defines angles of attack and defence combined with techniques to strike, block and counter.

The Kali practitioner applies this system using a range of weapons, including sticks, knives, swords and even open-hand making this a versatile and practical form of combat and self-defence.

“this Filipino martial art is a complete fighting system that defines angles of attack and defence”

The origin of Kali, Eskrima, Arnis

Kali originated in the Philippines thousands of years ago. It has served as a form of combat and defence from the times of Spanish conquest until World War II. Today, it remains the country’s national sport.

The Many Styles of Kali, Eskrima, Arnis

This martial art was developed simultaneously in regions of the Philippines, leading to several styles. As Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) spread internationally, these styles have evolved and multiplied further. Each generation of Grandmasters continues to adapt and improve the art in their vision.

Weapons Combat

Kali is effectively a system for fencing or sword fighting. It is focused on angles of attack and defence and defines techniques to strike, block, parry and counter-attack.

It is best known for stick fighting, using the baston, a wooden Kali stick that is light but very strong. However, fighters can substitute the stick for any weapon;  knives, daggers and swords are also popular.

Hand-to-Hand Combat

The principles of Kali are versatile and can be applied without weapons in hand-to-hand combat, known as Mano-Mano or Panatukan. It earned the nickname “dirty boxing” because it is closer to street fighting in many ways. This makes it an excellent form of self-defence.

Kali Gym

Instinct Martial Arts is located on the Riverside Park Industrial Estate, Middlesbrough. It is close to Teessaurus Park and just a short drive from surrounding Teesside areas:

Linthorpe, Acklam, Easterside, North Ormesby, Nunthorpe, Marton, Coulby Newham, Hemlington, Ingleby Barwick, Redcar, Eston, Normanby, Guisborough, Yarm, Stockton, Thornaby, Norton and Billingham.

The gym is convenient for students of Middlesbrough College and Teesside University. We partner with schools and colleges, providing students with classes and training suited to different levels of fitness and ability.

The coaches at Instinct Martial Arts are professional and supportive, presenting a positive environment with no room for attitude or ego – the perfect atmosphere to develop your skills.

Kali Training

Kali / Eskrima training is a phenomenal workout for the body and mind; it complements other martial arts well.

This martial art is more technical than most and requires patience, discipline and dedication. However, the challenge makes this sport all the more rewarding as you progress.

Coaches provide personal instruction and guidance tailored to each individual. The team practices in pairs in a safe environment using full protection.