Pentjak-Silat

This art (sometimes known simply as "Silat") comes from indonesia.It is second only to Kung Fu in breadth and number of substyles.The Name means "to do fighting for self-defense" it orignated in the later half of the first millenia AD and gradually spread throughout the islands and diversified.Although it was outlawed for commoners in the 1300's,incessant Hindu-Muslim conflicts kept it alive among the people.It has been used as an actual combat art right up to present day.

Pentjak-Silat varies wildly from island to island and region to region;for example,some substyles involve flashy acrobatic leaps,while in others, the fighters move and fight while crouched low on the ground.Sumatran substyles concentrate on kicks,while Bornean and west Javanese substyles concentrate on punches and hand attacks;other substyles mix techniques or use more grabs and throws.However,one thing that most styles have in common is that the fighters are trained to keep their footing on slippery ground(Mud,a rocking boat,slick pavement) because that condition is so common in Indonesia.

Pentjak-Silat teaches many weapons,but the most prominent is the Kris,a wavy blady dagger.All silat students learn how to use the kris.The Mysticism and legends surrounding this weapon equal or exceed those surrounding the Katana.Kris are said to posses many powers,such as the ability to kill someone merely by being pointed at him or the ability to rattle in the sheath to warn their owner of danger.

A Pentjak-Silat master is known as a Guru or pandekar.Students often wear distinctive waistcloths and turbans.

Schools:Pentjak-Silat is almost unknown in the United states;one who wishes to study it will have to travel to Indonesia.Training takes at least six hours a day and often lasts for years.

Members:Traditonally,only men practiced Pentjak-Silat;However,this may be changing in the modern world.This style has so many substyles taht a fighting method can be found to suit almost anyone-short or tall,weak or strong.