OUR CLUB

Silat is a Malaysian martial art,  but is taught throughout Indonesia to all ages and has even been known to have been taught to toddlers, but I prefer to teach those of 6 and above.

In these classes we start with basic forms . These are known as Asas. They teach the basic techniques of the style, including stances, punching, and kicking.We also include hand drills that range from stepping through drills to sticking hand type drills, similar to those taught in Karate and Wing Chun teaching sensitivity and trapping. The Silat kickboxing hand drills are extensive enough and are made more combative as the student progresses.

The student will also be taught the basic Langkah at the same time. 
Langkah are footwork drills that form the basics of any attack or defence. Silat works from a dance-like set of moves, which are designed to enable the student to reach a position that is at the same time beneficial to himself, and places the opponent in some difficulty. Punching and kicking combinations are also incorporated at a higher level, as well as different stepping patterns and rhythms. In our system we keep the footwork simple early on to allow the student to master the striking aspects for which the art is famous.

Once a student has mastered the basic Asas and Langkahs they are then taught the next technique known as Buahs, which are practised with a partner.

These partner techniques are the basic defence and counter attacks of Malaysian Silat.  They are  what we call the "fruits" of the basic training. The Buah uses the knowledge learnt from the Asas, i.e the kicks, punches and stances but with both partners taking turns to be the attacker and defender.

These first techniques will help the student with co-ordination, memory, concentration, and attention. Full gradings will take place approximately every 3-6 months, once the student has an understanding of each level. We aim to teach these basic techniques for the first three months of training to ensure that the students are completely comfortable with their progress before moving on to new techniques.

The third technique taught is known as Pecahan.

Pecahan is the “breaking open of the fruit”. It is basically a combination technique designed to teach both defence and attack in a more realistic environment. They enable the student to be able to defend and attack from any position, whether standing, lying or even mid throw. Unlike some other martial arts, Silat teaches the students to fight back and respond to the techniques of their opponents.

Once a student has mastered all the basic techniques then more extensive moves and drills will be added on until all aspects of the Buah and Pecahans have been learnt.

The beginner and intermediate class runs from 7-8.30. In that the class is divided into sections covering an athletic warm-up, followed by training in basic punching and kicking, and leg conditioning drills. I aim to do this with a cardiovascular emphasis, so you can get fitter and help to lose weight. we then move on to the silat and kickboxing techniques. This is where the full body combat is used. You do not have to be a hardened cage fighter to take part in this as all students will be able to learn at their own pace. You will be taught a combination of attacking and defensive moves and also take part in hand and foot drills, and boxing and kickboxing combinations.  Once you have learned the basic moves you will progress to the advanced level.

Advanced classes finish at 9.30pm. in the advanced class I will be covering weapon training using Lightning Scientific Arnis- a Filipino art also known as arnis or kali.  In this class we focus on stick work with the standard eskrima sticks. I have just started to include a new technique using what is commonly known as the long stick. We use a numbered system from 1 to 12 learning defence and attack moves alone and with a sparring partner. The class runs for approximately 45 mins. I will allow people to do this if they have shown the correct control and discipline in the beginner class, and if they want to learn something new.  we will then also be applying the techniques ina  more combat manner, and with greater contact. That is why it is the advanced class, and people are moved into this class if they show an aptitude, or have achieved a certain level, and is at the instructors discretion.

Classes price start from £4 for the children and £8 per for the adults but a discount is offered if a family want to take part.

I have just started a new syllabus and the gradings will be introduced gradually. Each grading will take approximately 3 –6 months to complete

If you are willing to work hard I’m willing to make you do just that.

We are small but friendly club with members of all ages and abilities. There is no set uniform at present time, and this will be introduced over the next few weeks and months, but all students whether children or adults should wear loose fitting tops, some form of tracksuit bottom and comfortable trainers. You would be well advised to bring bottles of water for the breaks in between each section of the classes.

There is ample room for parking in the school and all the classes are held in the large school hall unless otherwise notified. Parents are welcome, and encouraged to accompany their children to classes. I really want the classes to be inclusive, friendly and family based, which is one reason why i have my kids there!