Armadong Kali as...

 

Authentic Filipino Martial Art

Armadong Kali is a Filipino martial art (FMA) that delivers on all the key attributes you would expect from an authentic FMA:

Certificate of Gratitude presented by the commander of the Austrian Jagdkommando given for 18 years of intensive, cooperative and successful training and collaboration in the field of ‘close combat for special forces’.
  • FMA is known for its emphasis on weapons, especially sticks, knives, and bladed weapons like the bolo. The training usually starts with weapons and then moves on to empty-hand techniques. Modern Fma systems also include firearms and other kind of weaponry.
  • While weapons training is the foundation, FMA also includes various types of hand striking, grappling and kicking techniques, making it a comprehensive system of self-defense.
  • FMA teaches you to be adaptable when it comes to both weapons and unarmed combat. Practitioners learn to use everyday objects, such as pens, umbrellas and belts, as improvised weapons.
  • FMA emphasizes fluidity of movement, timing, and rhythm. This fluidity is known as "flow" and is crucial in transitioning between offense and defense, or between different weapons and techniques.
  • FMA is deeply rooted in Filipino history and culture. It's a way of life that's been passed down through generations. FMA evolved as a way of survival and fighting in tribal warfare, colonial resistance, and other conflicts. It's an integral part of Filipino identity.
  • Until recently FMA is a proven fighting technique grounded in real life applications. These techniques and experiences were normally shared within the family or with small group of trusted people. Next to learning the physical techniques, this transfer of knowledge from experienced to younger is an important part of keeping FMA alive as a self-defence system.

Armadong Kali embodies the essence of authentic Filipino Martial Arts, blending traditional weapons training and a life appreciating culture with modern self-defense techniques. Its rich history, rooted in survival and resistance, makes it more than just a physical discipline – it's a living tradition that's been passed down through generations.

No matter if you're learning to handle weapons, defend yourself unarmed, or adapt everyday objects into tools of protection, Armadong Kali gives you the skills and mindset you need for real-world combat situations. Thanks to its fluid movements and adaptability, Armadong Kali keeps on thriving as both a cultural heritage and a practical system of self-defence.

 

Complete and effective self-defence

Armadong Kali is a highly sophisticated and effective self-defence system in the tradition of Filipino martial arts (FMA). This martial art has survived for centuries as an practical self-defence system protecting the Filipino people against criminals and foreign invaders. While some FMA systems have drifted towards sport and exhibitions, one thing is clear: the FMA's roots of self-defence have never been lost. This is particularly true of Armadong Kali. It has been refined to offer the most effective solutions for military and civilian use.

Armadong Kali is a very complete training system. In Armadong Kali, we learn to use our environment, bodies and weapons for offence and defence. While we use all kind of weaponry of FMA we focus in particular on knife and empty-hand techniques. But Armadong Kali also offers techniques for gun, flash light, palm stick, pepper spray. Also walking stick, briefcase, backpack, blanket, coat and many other everyday items can be useful self protection tools in the hands of an Armadong Kali-trained person.

These are some of the reasons why Police and military units all over the world adopted training methods and techniques from Filipino Martial Arts and Armadong Kali: 

  • Armadong Kali teaches you to be aware of your surroundings so you can avoid or de-escalate dangerous situations. Be aware of possible threats while still keeping a positive outlook on life.
  • Armadong Kali shows you how to spot potential issues, manage your personal space and avoid conflict when possible.
  • Armadong Kali provides simple and effective techniques for real-world situations. If a conflict cannot be avoided, you will be ready.
  • Our solutions are designed to neutralise threats quickly and without attracting unwanted attention.
  • Armadong Kali incorporates training on how to use everyday objects as improvised weapons (pens, keys, umbrellas) to enhance defense capabilities.
  • Our training covers both empty-hand techniques and the lawful use of weapons like knives, sticks, or firearms.
  • Armadong Kali incorporates training on how to use everyday objects as improvised weapons (pens, keys, umbrellas) to enhance defense capabilities.
  • Our training covers both empty-hand techniques and the lawful use of weapons like knives, sticks, or firearms.
  • The Armadong Kali methods are versatile and adaptable, making them an effective solution for a range of scenarios. We have the solutions you need, whether you're facing simple annoyances or full-on attacks.
  • Our techniques are effective in a variety of environments, including defending oneself in tight spaces (such as elevators and cars), or against multiple attackers.
  • Armadong Kali teaches how to remain calm and assertive in high-pressure situations.
  • Encourages decision-making under pressure.
  • Instructs on the legalities of self-defense.
  • Prepares for the psychological impacts of violence, such as fear, shock, or guilt.
  • Our complete Armadong Kali training system includes functional fitness drills designed to improve speed, agility, strength, and endurance during confrontations.

In a world where personal safety is increasingly important, Armadong Kali offers a practical and proven solution. Its unique combination of traditional Filipino martial arts and modern self-defense techniques makes it adaptable to various environments and threats. Whether you are looking for ways to protect yourself in daily life or enhance your tactical skills for professional use, Armadong Kali provides the tools and mindset necessary to face challenges with confidence. The training goes beyond physical techniques, preparing practitioners mentally and emotionally for the realities of self-defense. Armadong Kali is the FMA of today. It is an effective tool for self-defense and personal growth.

 

Armadong Kali as Healthcare

There are many health benefits to practising Armadong Kali that go beyond just your body. It will also help you feel good mentally and emotionally, which is a great way to look after your overall wellbeing and health.

Training in Armadong Kali is usually done at a moderate heart rate, similar to a brisk walk or light jog. You can set the pace yourself, so it's easy to adjust the intensity to your level of ability. Beginners often focus on perfecting the technique, and as their coordination improves, their cardio and endurance develop naturally over time. This gradual progression makes Armadong Kali accessible to all fitness levels, while building both physical and technical skills.

Here are some of the main health benefits of practising Armadong Kali:

  • FMA involves high-intensity drills, footwork, and fast-paced movement, which increases heart rate, improving cardiovascular endurance and overall heart health.
  • Training with weapons like sticks and knives builds upper body strength, particularly in the arms, shoulders, and core. Many FMA drills involve repetitive strikes, blocks, and grappling techniques that develop muscle tone and endurance.
  • FMA's focus on weaponry and fluid movement demands sharp hand-eye coordination and fast reflexes. Practitioners learn to track movements, react quickly, and maintain balance, improving agility and dexterity. The "flow" techniques train the body to transition smoothly between offensive and defensive actions.
  • FMA involves dynamic movements such as pivoting, evading strikes, and executing fluid footwork, which enhance joint flexibility and range of motion. Regular practice keeps the body agile and reduces the risk of injury.
  • FMA's requires high levels of concentration and situational awareness, as practitioners must track multiple variables, such as the opponent’s movements, angles of attack, and positioning. The mental aspect of anticipating attacks and planning counters helps sharpen the mind and improve cognitive function.
  • FMA's requires high levels of concentration and situational awareness, as practitioners must track multiple variables, such as the opponent’s movements, angles of attack, and positioning. The mental aspect of anticipating attacks and planning counters helps sharpen the mind and improve cognitive function.
  • Like many forms of exercise, FMA can help reduce stress by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. Martial arts training fosters a sense of discipline, resilience, and confidence, helping to alleviate anxiety and depression.
  • Like many forms of exercise, FMA can help reduce stress by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers. Martial arts training fosters a sense of discipline, resilience, and confidence, helping to alleviate anxiety and depression.
  • Learning practical, real-world self-defense techniques in FMA builds self-confidence and a sense of empowerment, reducing fear in potentially dangerous situations. Knowing how to defend oneself provides a mental boost and increases self-esteem.
  • Learning practical, real-world self-defense techniques in FMA builds self-confidence and a sense of empowerment, reducing fear in potentially dangerous situations. Knowing how to defend oneself provides a mental boost and increases self-esteem.
  • The intricate footwork and defensive maneuvers in FMA require strong balance and stability, leading to better posture and physical alignment over time.
  • FMA often involves partner drills and sparring, which fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among practitioners. Building relationships with fellow martial artists can improve emotional well-being.
  • FMA teaches strategic thinking and adaptability, as practitioners must constantly assess situations and make quick decisions during combat drills. This enhances problem-solving skills both on and off the mat.
  • Kali training is a fantastic way to kickstart your weight loss journey! While it's not a replacement for a healthy diet, it's a great addition to help you make the changes you need to reach your goals. Burn calories, shed fat, and get a healthier, fitter body with FMA!

 

A Holistic Approach to Self-Defence and Well-Being.

Armadong Kali is all about keeping you safe in potentially dangerous situations. You will also master the art of balancing your body and mind, managing stress, and supporting your mental well-being.

Training with helpful, encouraging partners is the best way to strengthen your belief in your own abilities and effectiveness. This boosts your self-esteem, self-respect and motivation, paving the way for a more mindful and healthier lifestyle.

Self-defence training is a powerful tool for personal growth. We consider it a form of healthcare  – and it's a great way to get fit and healthy too!

 

Culture in Action

Culture has a significant impact on Filipino martial arts and self-defence. The Filipino martial art Armadong Kali is a prime example. It effectively combines fighting techniques with cultural values, offering a comprehensive modern self-defence system.

Here’s how Filipino culture influences and benefits martial arts and self-defense:

  • The Filipino value of bayanihan, or community spirit, emphasizes working together and helping one another, which translates well into martial arts training.
  • This sense of community helps create a supportive training environment, where everyone is motivated to improve their self-defense skills collectively.
  • The Filipino cultural value of Bayanihan is evident in Armadong Kali training groups, which foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among practitioners. Students are encouraged to learn, grow and improve together, rather than focusing solely on individual success.
  • Filipinos are known for their resilience and resourcefulness, traits honed through centuries of overcoming adversity (colonialism, natural disasters, etc.).
  • In Filipino Martial Arts, these traits are embodied in the adaptability of the system, where practitioners learn to improvise with weapons and techniques depending on the environment or situation.
  • The emphasis on using everyday objects (pens, sticks, knives) as weapons in self-defense reflects this "diskarte" or practical creativity and quick thinking.
  • The concept of "malasakit" in Filipino culture, which means "compassion", "concern for others", or "empathy, has a meaningful connection to self-defense, particularly in the context of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) and the broader philosophy behind martial training. 
  • At its core, malasakit involves caring for the well-being of others, which aligns with the primary purpose of self-defense—protecting oneself and those around you.
  • Filipino Martial Arts are often practiced not just for personal gain or competitive sport, but as a way to defend loved ones or the community. The willingness to protect family, friends, or even strangers in danger reflects malasakit in action.
  • Armadong Kalis emphasis on practical, efficient techniques also demonstrates a focus on safeguarding others, reflecting the cultural value of protecting the community.
  • Filipinos are known for their hospitality and a generally peaceful disposition. In martial arts, this translates to an emphasis on de-escalation and using self-defense only when necessary.
  • Armadong Kali teaches you how to spot potential issues, manage your personal space and avoid conflict when possible.
  • The cultural inclination toward peace teaches Filipino martial artists to avoid unnecessary conflict and use their skills responsibly, aligning with the principle of only engaging in violence for self-defense purposes.
  • The Filipino value of paggalang (respect), especially for elders and teachers, is deeply rooted in martial arts practice. Practitioners are taught to respect their gurus (instructors) and fellow students, maintaining discipline and humility.
  • Respect is also shown for the history of the art, keeping the wisdom of the elders while still adapting to modern self-defence situations. This sense of respect helps martial artists stay disciplined and committed to continuous improvement.
  • FMA is often passed down through families, with knowledge and skills being shared across generations, creating a strong connection between family values and martial training.
  • The importance of family in Filipino culture fosters a deep sense of loyalty and protection. Many Filipinos are motivated to learn martial arts and self-defense to protect themselves and their loved ones.
  • The historical and cultural emphasis on courage and honor is reflected in Filipino martial arts. FMA practitioners are taught to be brave, yet honorable, in their actions, balancing aggressive techniques with ethical considerations.
  • This cultural value ensures that self-defense is approached with a sense of responsibility, ensuring that practitioners use their skills with integrity.
  • FMA developed as a result of centuries of colonial occupation, during which Filipinos had to develop practical, effective methods for defending themselves against invaders.
  • This historical context of survival has shaped FMA into a martial art that emphasizes adaptability, quick thinking, and practicality in real-world situations. The survival mentality in Filipino culture reinforces the idea of using martial arts as a way to overcome challenges and protect oneself.
  • FMA is deeply tied to Filipino cultural identity, and practicing these arts instills a sense of cultural pride. This pride often motivates Filipinos to preserve and promote their martial heritage, enhancing the dedication and passion they bring to their practice.
  • By linking martial arts with cultural identity, many practitioners feel a strong connection to their ancestors and heritage, motivating them to excel and uphold the values of their tradition.
  • Many Filipinos are guided by their faith and spiritual beliefs, which can influence their martial arts journey. FMA practitioners often incorporate spiritual discipline into their training, reflecting the importance of balancing physical abilities with mental and spiritual growth.
  • This combination of physical practice and spiritual grounding can lead to a more holistic approach to martial arts and self-defense, where the mind, body, and spirit are in harmony.

It is undeniable that Filipino cultural values such as resilience, community spirit, respect, adaptability and family loyalty have a great influence on martial arts training and self-defence. This makes the practice of Armadong Kali not only a physical activity, but also a valuable personal, cultural and moral experience.

 

Sports Fighting and Tournament Sport

The Filipino martial Art (FMA) Armadong Kali is all about self-defence and achieving personal growth. One of the key training methods of FMA is friendly fighting (laban laro). As fighting is part of the training, it's no surprise that Filipino martial artists have been competing in friendly sporting events and less friendly duell fights for a long time. Without modern protective equipment, those fights could have been pretty dangerous. Some of those less friendly fights were even called "death matches".

European Kali practitioners during friendly fight training (sparring).

The availability of protective gear has led to new competition formats for tournaments. These tournaments are less injury prone due to protective gear and rules that provide the safety of the participants. As a result, FMA, particularly Arnis, is now recognised internationally as a sport. It is the national martial art and sport of the Philippines and has been included in events like the Southeast Asian Games. Competitions are held globally, with participants from various countries, reflecting the growing popularity of FMA as a competitive sport.

In essence, Filipino martial arts as a sport is a winning combination of traditional techniques and a modern competitive format. It's no surprise that it's gaining global popularity. However, there's a risk that the focus on self-defence will be lost along the way. Some of the essential self-defence skills are part of Filipino culture and may not be part of the training when FMA is taught as a competition sport. We've seen this happen with martial arts in other countries, and it's a very real possibility here too.

At Armadong Kali, we keep our focus on personal growth and self-defence. We use protective equipment to train for real combat situations with higher intensity and more realistic pressure. We also train in sparring mode for fun and to improve our self-defence skills.

 

Armadong Kali and Its Deep Military Connections: From Guerilla Warfare to Modern Special Forces

Armadong Kali, rooted in the broader Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), is a martial art with a long history of military applications. Its history traces back to the resistance against Spanish colonization, where guerrilla warfare played a pivotal role. During the Spanish rule, Filipino villages were even organized for military training by the colonial administration. Later, the FMA proved its effectiveness once again in World War II, when Filipino soldiers and resistance fighters successfully fought the Japanese invaders, earning recognition from the American government for their bravery.

Two AFP Force Recon Marines deonstrate tactical application of ginunting Kali sword against rifle threat.
Pekiti-Tirsia Kali demonstration of the AFP Force Recon Elite Unit (1998)

This martial tradition continues to thrive today in the Philippines' ongoing conflict with heavily armed terrorist groups. FMA, including Armadong Kali, remains central to the combat training of military forces.

Since the late 1990s, the Filipino Armed Forces (AFP) Marine Force Recon have wholeheartedly embraced Kali as an integral part of their military training. Kali training quickly became a staple in the AFP's Marine training programmes, attracting significant interest from American forces. Kali training was highly sought after during joint military exercises, such as the Balikatan, where U.S. troops actively participated. (Pekiti Tirsia and the military, published 2002 by Tuhon Uli Weidle)

Certificate of Gratitude presented by the commander of the Austrian Jagdkommando given for 18 years of intensive, cooperative and successful training and collaboration in the field of ‘close combat for special forces’.
Certificate of Gratitude presented by the commander of the Austrian Jagdkommando given for 18 years of intensive, cooperative and successful training and collaboration in the field of ‘close combat for special forces’.

In Europe, Armadong Kali has also become popular with law enforcement and special forces. Training programmes for police and security forces have incorporated its principles into their methodologies. Since 2006, the Austrian Jagdkommando, an international Tier One special forces unit with extensive operational experience, has incorporated Armadong Kali into its close combat training. Tuhon Uli Weidle's work with the Jagdkommando was rewarded with a Certificate of Gratitude from the unit's Commander, marking 18 years of successful collaboration.

This type of training differs considerably from civilian training programmes. It was therefore necessary to rethink the didactics and methodology. The result is a modularised, compact and highly effective training course that prepares soldiers for various operational situations in the shortest possible time. The solutions taught can be learned quickly and are tailored precisely to the specific needs of the soldiers. 

Tuhon Uli Weidle’s influence extends far beyond military settings. His extensive experience shapes civilian defense training, especially for legally armed individuals. Trainers like Karl Artner also follow Tuhon Weidle’s approach, offering specialized modules for law enforcement, personal protection, and covert operations. The focus on situational awareness, quick responses, and mental resilience under pressure has made Armadong Kali a crucial tool in the hands of police and special units worldwide.

Tuhon Uli Weidle’s influence ensures that Armadong Kali is not only effective for combat readiness but also adaptable for use by law enforcement and legal weapons carriers. It blends real-world military experience with practical civilian self-defence. His work has made this martial art a critical asset for those operating in dangerous and complex environments.

Armadong Kali is without equal when it comes to training that builds both physical and mental toughness, whether in military or civilian contexts. With its historical roots and modern adaptations, it is a vital asset for those in high-risk professions who require practical, real-world combat skills.

If you have a reasonable and legitimate interest in military techniques, get in touch via the contact form.

 

The continued evolution of Pekiti Tirsia Kali

The Filipino martial arts (FMA) world is rich with history, traditions, and evolving practices. One fascinating journey within this world is the transformation of Pekiti Tirsia Kali (PTK) into Armadong Kali, spearheaded by Tuhon Uli Weidle. Deeply rooted in the techniques and teachings of PTK, Armadong Kali has emerged as a distinctive system. Let’s explore how this transformation took place, beginning with Uli Weidle’s introduction to Pekiti Tirsia and the eventual formation of Armadong Kali.

Connection to Pekiti Tirsia Kali

Pekiti Tirsia Kali, a close-quarter, blade-based martial art, has its origins in the Philippines. It focuses on counter-offensive techniques using edged weapons, with a history dating back generations. The global spread of PTK began when Supreme Grand Master Leo T. Gaje moved from the Philippines to the United States in 1972. This marked the first time PTK was taught to non-Filipinos. Gaje’s relocation to New York opened the doors to a new wave of practitioners, including one of his earliest American students, P. Greg Alland.

In 1989, Uli Weidle, a martial arts enthusiast from Europe, began his PTK training under P. Greg Alland in New York. This was the beginning of a deep relationship between Uli, PTK, and the legendary Supreme Grand Master (SGM) Leo T. Gaje.

Immersion in the World of Pekiti Tirsia

Uli’s dedication to PTK went beyond regular practice. In 1995, Greg Alland invited him and his brother Achim to travel to the Philippines for an immersive training experience with Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje. This first encounter with SGM Gaje sparked a series of over 40 extended training trips to the Philippines. During these visits, Uli lived with the Gaje family and trained closely with the Grand Master, becoming a personal student (travel report 1998).

Between 1996 and 2019, Uli Weidle hosted and accompanied SGM Leo Gaje in over 40 seminars and training camps across Europe. His dedication and close mentorship under Gaje earned Uli the prestigious title of Tuhon (Advanced Master Level), making him the first European to hold this rank in Pekiti Tirsia. For 25 years, Uli was responsible for the development and promotion of PTK throughout Europe, fostering a strong following for the art.

Tasked to train military

In 2000, Uli Weidle was commissioned to train military commando and special operations forces. This type of training differs considerably from civilian training programmes. It was therefore necessary to rethink the didactics and methodology. The result is a modularised, compact and highly effective training course that prepares soldiers for various operational situations in the shortest possible time. The solutions taught can be learned quickly and are tailored precisely to the specific needs of the soldiers. The success of this new programme has been so convincing that Armadong Kali is now integrating aspects of the programme into civilian training courses.

The Birth of Armadong Kali

While Uli’s foundation remained strongly rooted in Pekiti Tirsia Kali, his own practice and teachings began to evolve. In 2015, what started as a small backyard training group became the informal birth of Armadong Kali. By 2016, the name Armadong began to take shape, symbolizing a unique approach to the traditional FMA.

As the group’s identity grew, so did its online presence. In 2017, armadong.com went live, further establishing the brand and the martial art itself. The evolution continued with the development of a logo in 2019, a clear indicator that Armadong Kali was stepping out from the shadows of its PTK roots to stand as an independent system.

Armadong Kali: A Distinctive Approach

Armadong Kali, while deeply influenced by Pekiti Tirsia, has its own distinct curriculum and training philosophy. Uli Weidle, with decades of experience under the tutelage of Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje, has crafted Armadong Kali to reflect both the core principles of PTK and his own innovations. In 2024, a written curriculum for Armadong Kali will be officially unveiled, offering a structured approach to this evolving martial art.

With the planned relaunch of the website in 2025, Armadong Kali is set to enter a new phase, solidifying its place in the global martial arts community while continuing to honor its roots in Pekiti Tirsia.

Natural Evolution of an Art

The story of Armadong Kali is a testament to the dynamic nature of martial arts. From its strong foundation in Pekiti Tirsia Kali, nurtured by the legendary Supreme Grand Master Leo T. Gaje, to its transformation into Armadong Kali, this journey reflects the natural evolution of an art form that adapts to the practitioner. Uli Weidle’s journey from PTK student to Tuhon and, ultimately, the founder of Armadong Kali, is a reflection of deep dedication, innovation, and respect for tradition.

As Armadong Kali continues to grow and evolve, it serves as both a tribute to its Pekiti Tirsia origins and a new chapter in the world of Filipino martial arts.

More about Armadong Kali:

 FMA

 Self-Defense

 Health

 Culture

 Sport

 Military

 Pekiti Tirsia

What is specific in Armadong Kali?

The modern martial art Armadong Kali has been adapted from the Filipino Pekiti Tirsia Kali. Armadong Kali is specifically designed to meet the demands of 21st-century civilian self-defence and has extra modules for authorized firearm carriers and close-quarter military combat.

In Armadong Kali:

  1. We train empty hands, edged and impact weapons from the very beginning.
  2. We include real-world self-defence solutions and situation training as part of basic training.
  3. We apply modern teaching methods. All training content is directly related to self-defense and personal growth. 
  4. Armadong Kali life-appreciating philosophy is based on a set of values that have been proven to help students deal with combat and other challenges.
  5. Our approach is to create balance of body and mind.

In short: we bring benefits of traditional training environment into modern life situations.