Pandemic Solo Training
Pandemic Solo Training? Hell, yes, it can be done! While it is true that FMAs are geared toward partner training, there are also tons of solo training possibilities during this pandemic. Forms and stick shadowboxing (carenza) come to mind. However, I have more than those…
The Third Lockdown
Due to a massive surge in cases, hospitalizations, ICU admissions and ventilator numbers, Ontario tightened the COVID-related restrictions three weeks ago. This is an extension of varying degrees of a lockdown since December. Despite that, the trend did not change. The province then imposed a…
FMA Translations
One of the keys to mastery of FMAs is knowing how to translate a movement across different platforms. A good example of this is “gunting.” This is a scissors-like movement, characterized by the left hand parrying an attack while the right hand defangs or cuts…
YouTube, Zoom, and Cross-Training
Intro The martial arts industry has been upended as we have gone through this pandemic. Several martial arts schools in the vicinity of where I live have closed. One school was in its location for 30 years only to be brought down by the pandemic…
Killer Left Hand Abanico Techniques
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…
Low High Palis Palis
The “Amazing Palis Palis Drill” post showcased a simple drill against angles 1 and 2. We will explore the low high version of this drill. Before we go any further, the basic premise of any flow drill is: don’t get hit. Now, there are several…
What Are Filipino Martial Arts?
Recently, a prospective student attended a trial class. She had some previous martial arts experience, consisting of karate. I taught her the 12 angles of attack and other Modern Arnis basics. She absorbed the material quickly and enthusiastically. After the class ended, I asked her…