If you want to know how to age well then look at this video of an 96 year old Filipino woman.
At the core of the 4D system we train are the filipino arts of Kali Arnis Escrima, which is what this phenomenal old ‘gal is in flow with. It’s a unique system with profound benefits for coordination, balance, and cognitive function. Just as a drummer has to build in complete independence of his limbs so does the good Kali practitioner. Finding the flow is meditative as new neural pathways and patterns of movement are drilled into our being.
Now I’m a long way off 96 but if and when I get there I hope I’m wearing the same smile and moving with the same grace as this woman.
Kali Escrima’s intricate movements, blending strikes, blocks, and footwork, form the foundation of its effectiveness. We use drills that demand precise coordination, fostering a heightened sense of hand-eye coordination and overall motor skills.
The repetitive nature of Kali Escrima drills contributes to muscle memory, refining movements and making them more efficient. This, in turn, benefits practitioners not only in the context of martial arts but also in everyday activities, promoting a more agile and responsive body.
Kali can be beautifully economical in it’s violence. The eye gouge, groin strikes and limb destructions aren’t for sport. They are designed to finish an altercation as quickly as possible.
But Kali doesn’t have the same high impact wear and tear training culture of a lot of other arts. Especially working with weapons, whether it be stick, knife or sword, the focus is on flow. Age is no limitation.
Balance is a cornerstone of physical well-being, particularly as we age and face declines in muscle mass and joint flexibility. Kali Escrima places a strong emphasis on stance, weight distribution, and footwork, which are integral to cultivating and maintaining a strong sense of balance.
We regularly engage in drills that require shifting weight, pivoting, and maintaining equilibrium while executing techniques. This focus on balance not only reduces the risk of falls and injuries but also contributes to improved proprioception, the body’s ability to sense its position in space.
Beyond its physical benefits, Kali Escrima positively impacts cognitive function, a vital consideration in the pursuit of longevity. The art’s emphasis on pattern recognition, quick decision-making, and the integration of multiple movements fosters cognitive agility and mitigates the effects of cognitive decline associated with ageing.
Moreover, the mental resilience and emotional balance cultivated by martial arts training offer stress reduction benefits. Considering stress as a factor in the ageing process, Kali Escrima’s holistic approach not only supports physical well-being but also nurtures mental and emotional health.
Kali Escrima emerges as a powerful ally in the pursuit of ageless vitality, offering a comprehensive approach to physical and mental well-being. Its impact on coordination, balance, and cognitive function makes it a valuable tool for adults seeking longevity.