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Arnis · Eskrima · Kali vs Pencak Silat: differences explained

Arnis · Eskrima · Kali: weapons: sticks and knives, then empty hands. Pencak Silat: mixed: strikes, sweeps, throws and weapons. For self-defence, both are similar. Best advice: try one class of each.

Arnis · Eskrima · KaliPencak Silat
Origin and founderPhilippines · national martial art by law since 2009Indonesia and the Malay world · centuries-old; UNESCO 2019
TypeWeapons: sticks and knives, then empty handsMixed: strikes, sweeps, throws and weapons
UniformT-shirt and pants (varies)Traditional black uniform (pakaian silat)
Belt / ranking systemVaries by schoolVaries by school
Typical techniquesSingle and double stick, knife, disarms, angle patternsLow stances, sweeps, strikes, forms (jurus), weapons like the golok
Sport / competitionYes, with sticks and paddingYes (PERSILAT); at the 2018 Asian Games
Self-defence focusHighHigh
Olympic statusNoNo
Where to train📍 Arnis · Eskrima · Kali clubs📍 Pencak Silat clubs

Summary written by Wabukan; rules and grading vary by federation and school.

Sources: Wikipedia — Arnis · Eskrima · Kali · Wikipedia — Pencak Silat · olympics.com

⚖ Pick any two arts · Quiz: which art suits you? · How to choose a school

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