Created in 1957 by Grandmaster Remy Presas, Modern Arnis is known as the “art within your art.” A synthesis of arnis, escrima, and kali styles, it is the national sport of the Philippines. Modern Arnis is a complete martial art system with short and long weapons, empty hands, and ground fighting techniques.
It’s also ridiculously fun. According to Shihan Janet, “My hand speed increased so much and the drills for coordination and precision have been a huge benefit to my Karate and to my life in general.”
Unlike Karate (which means “empty hands”) Modern Arnis begins with two rattan canes and as the student progresses they mature into empty handwork. Like Karate, there are opportunities for competition at the local, national, and international levels.
There are two ways you can compete in Karate.
You can compete as a Recreational Athlete or an Elite Athlete. Most competitors start in Recreational and then move to Elite when the coaches feel they are ready. All competitions are divided so that you will be a youth competitor or a senior competitor.
You can continue as a youth competitor until you are 20 years old; however, the highest level of competition is for Seniors. You can begin as a Senior competitor in your teens if you’re ready. Senior: 16+ in Kata, 18+ in Kumite.
There are two ways you can compete in Karate.
You can compete as a Recreational Athlete or an Elite Athlete. Most competitors start in Recreational and then move to Elite when the coaches feel they are ready. All competitions are divided so that you will be a youth competitor or a senior competitor.
You can continue as a youth competitor until you are 20 years old; however, the highest level of competition is for Seniors. You can begin as a Senior competitor in your teens if you’re ready. Senior: 16+ in Kata, 18+ in Kumite.