Eskrima is an indigenous fighting art of the Philippines.  It is known to be highly effective and very aesthetically pleasing. 

 

In 1521 Rajah Lapu-Lapu, the ruler of Mactan Island in the Visayas, Philippines, was the first native to resist Spanish invasion and colonisation.  He and his soldiers defeated Ferdinand Magellan at dawn on April 27th 1521.  The battle ended Magellan's expedition and delayed the Spanish occupation of the islands of the Philippines by over 40 years. 

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FMA, often referred to as Eskrima/Arnis/Kali incorporates elements from both Western and Eastern Martial Arts.  This system of martial arts was created due to the inherent need for self-preservation.  Throughout the ages, invaders and local conflict meant that effective methods of combat were essential.  Filipino Martial Arts appears in many Hollywood movies.  FMA are considered the most advanced practical modern blade system in the world and are a core component of the US Army's Modern Army Combatives program, the Russian Special Forces, the Government of India for their Army, National Security Guard, Navy and Central Armed Police Forces.

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Eskrimadors learn to use weapons first and all weapons based work translates easily into an empty hand application.  There are many aspects to FMA, therefore the curriculum is extensive and all aspects are trained from the beginning (bladed weapons, impact weapons and empty hand defensive skills).