One of the tenets of Modern Arnis is practicing with both the right and left hand. While I am right-hand dominant, I have fun playing with my left hand. I believe it is vital for overall martial development to practice both sides. However, there is no doubt that I will revert to my right hand if that time ever comes. All that said, the left-hand abanico corto is one of my favourites to practice.

“Abanico Corto” is Spanish for “short fan.” This technique can be wicked and a hell of a lot of fun. I have posted several abanico corto videos on my YouTube channel.

If you are not able to view this video, click here.

For the sake of the video, I demonstrated just two techniques, and both depended on Alex’s reaction after I disarmed him. Before I go any further, I should note that you should consider hitting your opponent in the noggin with the abanico corto technique. Otherwise, what is the purpose of this technique?

Yes, my technique is above the head for safety’s sake but I am thinking of hitting him!

Side note: Ignore the hockey rink and the goalie behind me. This is Canada, after all! I was teaching at a community center at the time. Anyway, back to Abanico Corto.

Note where my left forearm is. I used it to move Alex’s weapon hand out of the way when doing the abanico corto technique. Otherwise, I will not be able to clear the path to his head. This is the primary reason for this technique.

Once we get past the noggin phase of the technique, we get into the fun stuff.


Whether a parry or a grab, I will hit no matter how Alex responds. Yes, I demonstrated a lock in the 2nd technique, but it would not be my primary technique. I’d rather not rely on fine motor control techniques. As my instructor, Professor Chuck Gauss, would say, “When in doubt, HIT!”

Numerous left-hand abanico corto techniques are similar to those in the above video.

Try them!

Additional Reading