Muscle memory and reflexes. Once you have developed the ability to move quickly and instinctively, you can then focus on specific techniques for knife defence.
The Indian Martial Arts school in London specialises in teaching the ancient art of Adi Tada kalari, which is a unique combative system that includes locks, grappling, kicking, punching, and weapons training. The school's goal is to promote this art throughout the UK and preserve its methods for future generations.
The school is named Agastya & Hanuman Marman Sangham kalari, which refers to the monkey God Hanuman and the sage Agastya. Marman means pressure points and Sangham means association. They believe in teaching the holistic approach of Indian martial arts, focusing not just on physical techniques but also on the mental and spiritual aspects of combat.
The training at Indian Martial Arts is comprehensive, covering a wide range of skills and techniques. There are 64 different skills of striking and blocking, throwing, and 64 locking techniques that incorporate leg locks, arm locks, headlocks, and more. These techniques are practised in various positions – standing, on the floor, crouching, and more.
The school also emphasises the importance of partner drills, called Kai poru, which help students develop correct techniques, timing, and understanding of real-life fighting situations. These drills enhance self-defence skills at a much higher level.
In addition to unarmed combat, Indian Martial Arts also focuses on weapon training. Students learn to use basic training weapons such as short sticks and long sticks, known as Kuru Vadi and Nedu Vadi. As they progress, they also learn to use metal weapons in combat.
Animal skills and techniques inspired by Indian deities are also incorporated into the training. Students practise forms and movements based on animals like the monkey, serpent, fish, lion, and peacock. Techniques inspired by Hindu gods like Krishna, Shiva, and Rama are also taught.
One of the unique aspects of Indian Martial Arts is its focus on knife defence. The school recognises the urgent need for self-defence against weapons, especially bladed weapons. They offer specialised training in knife defence, where students learn to react quickly and intelligently when faced with an attack.
The school emphasises the science behind knife defence, teaching students to prepare themselves mentally and physically for knife attacks. Students learn to develop quick reflexes and muscle memory for movement, as well as specific techniques for knife defence.
Indian Martial Arts is open seven days a week and welcomes students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are interested in learning self-defence, improving your physical fitness, or experiencing the rich tradition of Indian combat arts, Indian Martial Arts offers a welcoming and supportive environment for all. Visit their website or contact them for more information on classes, costs, and schedules.