The book features a twofold, interrelated focus. First, it looks at the unique Filipino culture; how it was greatly influenced by Spanish colonization, the oppression it suffered under foreign rule, and how the native yearning for freedom led to the development of the martial art of arnis. The book then presents the distinct technical aspects and resultant physical manifestation of the indigenous fighting art. Centering upon the Kombatan method forged by Grandmaster Ernesto Amador Presas Sr., it describes numerous maneuvers utilizing stick, blade, and empty hand components, and offers information on their myriad practical applications. This volume is unique in that it is one of but a few composed by a native-born and bred Filipino author, one who absorbed lesson in the Philippines, directly under the guidance of an established system's founder. The book seeks to present arnis in a proper light, as a simple and pragmatic method of self-protection, while debunking the more fanciful theories and concepts that have crept in as it makes its way into world consciousness.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 3.0 / 5.0
very basic-could be a lot better:
I was hoping that this book would be a change from most of the Arnis/Escrima/Kali books that have multiplied over the last couple of decades, but no, there really isn't anything unique here. Everything here is covered in just about any FMA book out. This is NOT a bad book at all. It's just not something that is going to further anything for anyone with a knowledge of solo baston style fighting. The angles of attack and defense are there, grip, some defensive techniques, etc. The author puts a little bit of... more info
History:
This is a fine book with a load of history on the FMA. I believe it has given me some bits and pieces that I had not got any ware else (in type,or video)This book "is" worth the cost. Knowledge is one thing (being able to use it is another). Semper Fi. Mike Tabor (PKS) Charlotte, MI.
Great intro into Arnis:
Arnis is a Philipino system that is primarily based around the use of weapons such as the stick, the knife, and the sword. This book is an excellent primer, scratching the surface of many aspects of Kombatan, a system of Arnis developed by Ernesto Presas. The book beggins with several historical chapters that cover such topics as the name for Philipino martial arts ("kali" is apparently not widely accepted in the PI), some cultural information of the Philipino people, and how the system of Kombatan... more info
