Modern Arnis Mano-Mano is a Filipino martial art system that connects weapon-based movement with practical self-defense. Training emphasizes striking, blocking, trapping, locking, takedowns, flow drills, disarms, footwork, and the translation of stick and blade principles into empty-hand application. Students develop reliable skills through solo drills, paired drills, sensitivity training, and structured practice guided by respect and modern safety standards.
Modern Arnis Mano-Mano helps students understand how the same angles, timing, and movement principles can apply with or without weapons. Practitioners develop coordination, speed, adaptability, awareness, confidence, and practical self-defense ability through a fluid and accessible martial arts system.
What is Modern Arnis Mano-Mano?
Modern Arnis is a Filipino martial art that teaches stick, blade and empty-hand techniques. Mano-Mano refers to its empty-hand component.
A key idea is that the same movements apply whether you hold a stick, a knife or nothing at all.
History and lineage
Modern Arnis was developed by Remy Presas in the mid-twentieth century. He organized traditional Filipino fighting methods into a system that could be taught to the public.
He brought the art to the United States in the 1970s, and it spread internationally.
What a class looks like
Class includes warm-ups, single and double stick drills, disarms, partner flow drills and empty-hand techniques.
Who it's for
Modern Arnis is great for people who want practical self-defense, better coordination and reflexes, and for martial artists of other styles who want to add weapons training.
FAQ
Is Modern Arnis good for self-defense?
Yes, Modern Arnis is practical for self-defense because it teaches how to handle weapons and empty-hand attacks with the same movements.
Do I need my own sticks?
You will need a pair of rattan sticks, which are inexpensive and easy to find.
