The philosophy of the school is to attempt to stress the relevance of the Filipino Arts in relation to contemporary times
while retaining the traditional/classical martial aspects of the Art. Its core concepts are based on the combative nature
of the Art. In light of recent events, one can easily see the relevence of personal defence training. The mind is emphasized
above all else. Weapons are only tools to be used, and all are controlled by the mind. A practitioner of this System must
learn to apply the principles and concepts of the Art effectively and efficiently, with his actions guided by the fundamental
philosophy.
PRINCIPLES The seven basic principles of the KBS System relate to all aspects of training, whether
blades, sticks or emptyhands.
1) Everything flows from the flywheel effect of using the waist as an axle, and the
entire upper body moves as one unit. There is never any drawing back or cocking to strike. Instead, learn to use the weapons
that are already cocked. This creates a smoothness of motion that results in faster, more powerful techniques. 2) The
hands should always be working in opposite directions. If one is pushing, the other should pull. If one is extended, then
the other should be close in. Palm up/palm down! 3) Always go with the flow. Don't fight against your opponent- let him
fight against himself. Guide him to help you in your techniques. 4) Try to make your opponent attack where you are prepared
for an attack. Allow him to access your open doors, and be ready for him. Be aware of openings in your defense where he is
likely to strike.
5) Whenever you are in contact with your opponent, never remove a hand without replacing a hand. Always try to maintain
contact (and control) until you are ready to break. 6) When inside, penetrate. When outside, deflect. 7) The angles
of attack of swords, sticks, knives and emptyhand techniques may be the same, but the defensive responses are NOT the same.
As the characteristics of the weapons change, so must your defense.
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CONCEPTS These eight basic concepts (as taught by GM Abner Pasa of the Warriors System) are universal to all arts, but
many have not noted them. The first four relate to the individual and the tools necessary to develop one's fullest
potential 1) Awareness: One must continually appreciate events and happenings that are going on around him at all times.
As a consequence, nothing is taken for granted and this insures that one is never caught off-guard and unprepared. 2)
Honesty: This concept develops in one an objective outlook on life. It allows a correct assessment of one's strengths and
weaknesses, and for those of his opponent. Overconfidence which results in complacency, and a lack of confidence as a result
of overestimating an opponent's capabilities are both potentially fatal flaws and need to be avoided. 3) Skills: One must
realize that skills aren't developed overnight. There is a need to develop one's foresight and planning capabilities- to anticipate
the future and prepare for the expected needs. 4) Appropriateness: Inculcates in a person a structured and systematic
ability to sift through information, separating that which is relevant from that which is not. It allows one to identify problems
and to define goals and objectives, as well as to formulate solutions and assess alternatives, and to then decide on a course
of action that offers the best chance for success. The second group of four concepts relates to the environment,
and provides the means and methodology to achieve one's goals by establishing the mechanics to effectively execute the techniques.
1) Characteristics of the weapon (tool): This concept develops the ability to look critically at the qualities of the
weapon used to achieve one's objectives. One must realize that the inherent strengths and limitations of the weapon strongly
determine its use. 2) Nature of the environment: This determines the type of weapon to be used, and allows an appreciation
of the need to use the appropriate tool to achieve a specific job. For example, tight places require short weapons while longer
weapons are desirable for open spaces. The environment is a limiting factor in the usefulness or effectiveness of a particular
weapon. 3) Balance: Allows one to focus on the optimal combination of factors to achieve the highest degree of efficiency
and effectiveness. Various alternatives always exist, and one should develop an ability to assess choices of actions, tactics
and strategies that can be adopted in the use of one principle in relation to others. 4) Universality: Nurtures and develops
a broad outlook in life, fostering understanding and deepening one's insight. All aspects of the Art interact with each other,
so deeper insight into one phase of the Art will enhance one's skill in other phases. Also develops the basic attitude that
in life, nothing is absolute, and one must realize that being good does not necessarily make others bad. Creates a desire
to seek excellence and to share it with others.
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