Kali / Escrima Classes at the Raleigh Martial Arts Academy

 

Kali is a traditional martial art that finds its roots in the Southeast Asian archipelago known worldwide as the Philippines. From island to island you will find several versions and family styles. Most styles are similar with slightly differing concepts. Some forms are also commonly referred to as Arnis and Escrima.

 

During the race to colonize the world, and finding themselves along popular trade routes, the Filipinos found an intrinsic need to defend themselves and the art of Kali flourished.

 

Kali is heavily weapons based and like most martial arts was forced to implement simple farming tools after being disarmed by invaders. The Bolo (a machete style tool) and other cutting tools along with simple knives were the main weapons. Today students learn to practice with rattan training sticks for safety.

 

The beauty of Kali is that the system was designed with the intent that the weapon is merely an extension of the hand. Kali’s techniques are based off angles of attack and rhythm. This allows the practitioner to use anything, including simple household items, or the empty hand as a weapon. Versatility is what makes Kali an extremely practical martial art to learn.

 

The form of Kali practiced at the Raleigh Martial Arts Academy is the Inosanto LeCosta form of Kali/Escrima. Head instructor Jason Culbertson learned under Guru Guy Chase, who was a full time instructor for Dan Inosanto.

 

Jason Culbertson also teaches LucayLucay Panatukan taught by Teddy and Lucky to Guru Chase and was fortunate to train with the late Grand Master Ben Largusa of Villabrille Largusa Kali system before his passing.