What is Escrima?
Escrima (also called Kali or Arnis) is a traditional Filipino martial art that focuses on weapons-based combat. It is widely practiced in the Philippines and internationally, known for its fluid and efficient techniques. In the US, most Escrima schools teach the use of the stick. Advincula’s Combat Escrima, the style taught at Megami Dojo, focuses on self defense against and using edged weapons.
You can see ACE in action in our Video Gallery.
Introduction to Advincula’s Combat Escrima
Video Transcript
In this brief introduction to Advincula’s Combat Escrima, I will explain some of the primary characteristics and training methods of this Filipino martial arts style.
Advincula’s Combat Escrima, sometimes called ACE for short, is founded by US Marine Corps Ret. MSgt AJ Advincula. I highlight 2 of many distinguishing characteristics of ACE. The first is that ACE principles and training are largely influenced by Advincula’s 24 years in the Marines combined with his real world experience in real edged weapon fights. ACE is strictly designed for real world combat, rather than sport. The second distinction is that ACE emphasizes Largo Mano Escrima – a rare practice in the US, where virtually all schools teach Corto Mano or Medio Mano.
ACE is based on simplicity, relying on concepts and principles, with a small number of techniques. Like other Largo Mano styles, ACE emphasizes 5 cardinal blows called the cinco teros, and furthermore amongst those 5, emphasizes 1: the thrust. Two-man drills are kept simple, usually practicing a defensive move followed by a counter. By contrast, other Escrima styles emphasize complicated flow drills that look pretty on camera but hardly resemble the realities of combat. The ACE focus on simplicity enables a new practitioner to be proficient in far less time than is seen in other systems.
One of the leading principles of ACE is the concept of “one strike, one kill”, also seen in Okinawan Karate where it is known in Japanese as ikken hissatsu. In other words, we wish to end the fight in as few blows as possible. This is most humane to our opponent and simultaneously reduces our own risk in the event of a physical altercation. Oftentimes, we do this by aiming for the opponent’s hand or wrist, so he can no longer hold a weapon. ACE also emphasizes specific high-value targets on the opponent’s body to end fights as quickly as possible.
In addition to armed defense, ACE also incorporates unarmed defense against knife attacks initiated by untrained opponents. A quick perusal on Youtube will show that it is frequently impossible to run from a knife attack. Furthermore, according to NYPD statistics, as of the time of publication of this video in 2024, youth knife attacks in New York are up an astonishing 48% year over year. Unarmed self defense training against knife attacks is paramount, in light of these alarming facts.
In summary, Advincula Combat Escrima is a style of Filipino martial arts that is highly applied in training and highly effective in real world self defense situations.
Megami Dojo offers instruction in Escrima along with Isshinryu Karate, Hindiandi Gung Fu, and self defense for non-martial artists. Contact us today to learn more about our classes, private lessons, and group seminars.