What is Eskrima?

The Eskrimador wields their stick

with the skill of a swordsman.

Eskrima, like Arnis, Kali, and Estokada, is one of the many regional names for the Filipino Martial Art of stick, blade, and empty-hand. At the turn of the last century it was often referred to as Esgrima Nativa (or "Native Fencing"). In the Negros Island region of the Philippines, where the system we teach comes from, it was often simply known as Bastón (Cane), or Olísi (Longstick), and its practitioners were known as Bastónero, Arnisadors, or Eskrimadors. Each of these names in some way references the art of "fencing" or armed "de-fence"; and at its most fundamental level, the art might best be understood as Bastón Eskrima (or Cane Fencing) where the preference historically was for defending oneself with the use of a "cane" rather than a "foil".

How do I start?

We offer a complimentary class to anyone who would like to try Eskrima. All you need to do is to complete the Pre-Training Registration Form and age-appropriate Training Waiver below, and send us a message via email, text, or messenger indicating when you will be coming in. We provide all necessary equipment for those starting out. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before the start time so we have a chance for proper induction. If you can't make your original booking, no problem, just reschedule with us via, email, text, or messenger.

Pre-Training Registration Form

Adult Training Waiver

Under 18 Training Waiver

What will I learn?

Our club specialises in the teaching of the Bernas Estocadas system of Filipino Martial Arts. This Eskrima system was developed by Grandmaster William Bernas, drawing upon the Ilonggo Bastón (stick) and Olísi (longstick) Wido fighting methods of Negros Occidental, taught to him by his Grandfather Ciriaco Canillo and Uncle Alfonso Brinquiz; and the Pekiti Tirsia (close quarters) Espada y Daga (sword and dagger) methods of Grandmaster Hortencio Navales. The system is instantly recognisable for its incorporation of these authentic and traditional Ilonggo or Negrense martial arts, as well as its signature multi-directional movement designed to handle multiple opponents, and is visibly both beautiful and effective.

SOLO BASTON

Single Stick

DOBLE BASTON

Double Stick

ESPADA Y DAGA

Sword & Dagger

OLISI

ESTOKIDO

Longstick

Empty Hands

Our Curriculum

What happens in a class?

Our classes emphasise both the martial and the art, and seek to balance form, flow, and function. The Bernas Estocadas system utilises three broad training methodologies:

Abesedario

Fundamentals

Core technical drills that build bio-mechanically sound methods of wielding a weapon. This includes drills that group and then combine strikes into Consonants (12 Basic Strikes) and Vowels (4 Special Striking Methods).

Pang-Away

Combatives

Advanced solo combination striking drills, and Defence and Counter partner drills, that translate into immediately effective combat applications.

Combate Heneral

General Combat

Practical principle-based and attribute enhancing play-based solo and partner drills for developing effectiveness and self-expression with sticks, blades, and empty hands.

Why train Eskrima?

Eskrima training is fun, and offers numerous physical, mental, and social benefits. Practitioners experience improved physical fitness, as they develop strength, agility, better reflexes, and enhanced coordination. Eskrima training also cultivates mental and emotional resilience, teaching students how to cope with challenges and build self-confidence; and offers a great avenue for stress-relief. Through the study of Eskrima, practitioners gain an appreciation for Filipino culture, history, and heritage, while also learning practical defence skills. The focus on stickfighting and swordplay levels the playing field, enabling effective participation regardless of a practitioner's size, age, or gender.

How much are the classes?

We offer a range of flexible payment options.

Download our current fee schedule or pay online below.

Download Fee Schedule

Online Payment Portal

Who do we accept as students?

Martial Arts training is a complex activity. We place equal emphasis on the martial and the art. As the Filipino Martial Arts we teach have a strong focus on stick and blade weaponry, we will only train people who demonstrate: (1) a level of maturity; (2) a capacity for sound ethical decision making and rational judgement; and (3) a respect for themselves and others. Medical clearances are required if an applicant has recurring injuries or other physical or mental health issues that could be exacerbated by martial arts training.

Students must be at least 13 years of age to train independently. We will consider younger teens, on a case-by-case basis, only if accompanied by a parent or guardian who trains with them.