Exploring Escrima
What is Escrima Concepts?
Escrima Concepts is a martial art that teaches unarmed and weapons.
Traditional Escrima originates from the Philippines and is also known as Kali, Arnis, and under the umbrella term of FMA (Filipino Martial Arts).
Escrima Concepts is a modernised form that has been refined by Grandmaster Steve Tappin.
Escrima Concepts International has clubs across the UK and Europe.
Is it all about weapons?
No. Escrima Concepts also teaches unarmed, empty handed combat.
Why train with weapons? I don't carry weapons on me!
We frequently hear this!
Training with weapons teaches us about angles, range, timing, and positioning, and these are skills that feed into our unarmed, empty handed combat.
We use the weapons as a training tool as they improve our coordination and force us to move and work for better positioning.
One of the core elements of Escrima Concepts is the transition from weapons to unarmed, and how the body mechanics from using the weapon connects and applies to your unarmed empty handed skills.
If you are already a martial artist, then Escrima Concepts can complement your existing skills.
We train all combinations of:
- Weapon vs Weapon
- Unarmed vs Weapon
- Unarmed vs Unarmed
We do this in order to give you a complete picture and a comprehensive understanding.
We also train with weapons to gain a better understanding of how to defend against them!
While you might be a law abiding citizen, other people may be carrying weapons concealed in their clothing or bags, and they can be improvised from everyday objects.
If someone picks up a bottle, a phone, or a rolled up magazine, that object can be used as a weapon.
Isn't running away the best defence if someone pulls out a weapon?
Yes! We would never recommend taking on an armed attacker, and as with all self defence, we would always advise:
- Avoiding dangerous situations
- Running away
- Using verbal de-escalation
A physical confrontation should always be the absolute last resort.
Aren't weapons dangerous?
Safety is our top priority, and as a beginner you will learn the basics of movement, structure, and footwork, with no speed or power.
As you progress, you will learn how to gradually increase your speed and power in a controlled method without injuring yourself, or your training partner.
How will I progress by training in Escrima Concepts?
Escrima Concepts has a structured syllabus of nine student grades that build on each other in a logical way, allowing you to develop and measure your progress.
It's not just an assortment of techniques loosely collected together. It's a tightly interconnected and cohesive system, where the skills and body mechanics you learn in the beginner grades provide the foundation for the intermediate and advanced grades.
Once you have completed the nine student grades, you then move into the Technician (dan/black belt) grades.
How else does training with weapons benefit me?
Training with weapons improves your strength, timing, and coordination, making you stronger, faster, and fitter.
Is it expensive to get started?
No. We want to get you training as soon as possible and we don't want price to be an obstacle.
No equipment is required, however later on if you wish to buy your own sticks and knives, we can supply them to you at a reasonable price.
How much does it cost?
You can either pay £8 per class, or £30 for the month (unlimited training).
Insurance costs £30 for the year.
Do I need to buy a uniform?
No. Wear whatever you like.
A uniform is an extra cost, and it's extra hassle getting it clean and ready for each training session. We are happy for you to wear your regular gym clothes.
If you're in class training, then we're more concerned with what you're doing rather than what you're wearing.
Do I need to be fit to start doing Escrima Concepts?
Not at all, however training with us will improve your fitness.
Free Trial Classes Available
Contact us today to book in for your first class.
