Modern Arnis

Filipino Mart Arts

The Filipino Martial Art of Modern Arnis has it roots in Balintawak and teaches you to see the world with a tactical eye.

Why Train Modern Arnis:

• Weapon Awareness: Understand how to defend against modern threats using practical, everyday items.

• Ambidextrous Reflexes: Unique drills train both sides of the body equally.

• Enhanced Coordination: Develop speed, fluid footwork and spatial awareness

• Functional & Engaging: A fast paced, highly engaging workout that keeps your mind locked in.

A common misconception is Modern Arnis is only weapons based. Not true! Everything you learn will translate to empty hand.

We train Modern Arnis under Professor Chuck Gauss who is one of seven Masters of Tapi-Tapi in the world. Professor Gauss trained directly under the late Remy Presas for decades until his passing in 2001. Professor Gauss is a retired police officer and does private security. 

The primary weapon is the rattan stick, called a cane or baston (baton), which varies in size, but is usually about 28 inches (71 cm) in length. Training covers empty-hand self-defense (striking, locking, throwing, etc.) as well as the trademark single and double stick techniques of the Filipino martial arts. 

Other aspects of the art include espada y daga (sword and dagger fighting), sinawali (double stick weaving patterns), and tapi-tapi (locking drills with the stick). In addition to partner drills, Modern Arnis includes the use of anyo (kata), solo forms both with and without the stick. 

Emphasis is placed on fitting the art in with a student’s previous training (“the art within your art”), smoothly reacting to changing situations in the fight (“the flow”), and countering the opponent’s attempt to counter strikes directed at him (“tapi-tapi”).