We actively foster the “white belt” mentality: a desire for knowledge and pursuing it for the sake of curiosity itself. Filipino Martial Arts techniques are a result of understanding core principles of combat (footwork, timing, angles) that have been learned, practiced, and honed through repetitive drills that include progressive resistance and stress inoculation. Our purpose is to provide the technical education of these core principles and a safe, supportive environment to experiment with new knowledge.
Rules of the mat:
Introduce yourself to anyone you don’t know
Be respectful
Be open-minded
What does a Dragon Sticks class look like?
Filipino Martial Arts is an umbrella term for a primarily weapon-oriented method of combat whose practitioners commonly refer to as “arnis”, “es(k/c)rima”, or “kali”; the same way a “car” is a “vehicle” is an “automobile”. At Dragon Sticks FMA, students train through a structured progression built around timing, distance, pressure, awareness, adaptability, and functional application.
The vastness and variety of the Philippines contains a myriad of unique-but-connected cultures and dialects, so we approach FMA with a lateral view of the principles rather than memorizing isolated techniques. Our 14+ classes combine technical instruction, active drilling, partner development, scenario training, tactical discussion, and movement refinement. Classes begin with movement preparation and coordination development before progressing into focused technical material and live application. Students are encouraged to think critically about what they’re learning, not simply imitate movement.
Sparring is encouraged as a developmental tool for students to pressure-test their skills in a controlled environment. Students who choose not to spar are still encouraged to observe critically and develop an academic understanding of timing, pressure, rhythm, and tactical decision-making such as:
why techniques work
when they apply
how timing and positioning affect outcomes
how principles transfer across weapons and empty hand
Dragon Sticks FMA is built around combat literacy, functional skill development, and long-term growth through structured practice.
Who are these classes for?
Dragon Sticks FMA welcomes:
complete beginners
experienced martial artists
cross-trainers
adults seeking practical self-defense
teens developing confidence and coordination
students interested in Filipino Martial Arts culture and application
Training is structured to allow long-term development at an individual pace while still maintaining seriousness, accountability, and functional standards.