Welcome to the World Modern Arnis Alliance

About the WMAA

The World Modern Arnis Alliance (WMAA) is an international organization that promotes and teaches the Filipino martial art of Modern Arnis. Modern Arnis was developed by Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas, who blended traditional Filipino stick fighting techniques with influences from other martial arts such as Judo, Karate, and Boxing.

The WMAA was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in the United States. It is led by Grandmaster Datu Tim Hartman, who trained directly under Grandmaster Presas. The organization aims to preserve, promote, and develop Modern Arnis by providing standardized training, testing, and certification for instructors and students, as well as organizing seminars, workshops, and tournaments.

The WMAA also emphasizes the practical applications of Modern Arnis in self-defense situations, as well as its value in promoting physical fitness, mental discipline, and cultural awareness. The organization has members and affiliates in 12 countries and holds an annual International Training Camp and Festival to bring together practitioners from around the world.

What is Modern Arnis

Modern Arnis is a Filipino martial art that was founded by Remy Presas in 1957. It is also sometimes referred to as “Modern Arnis de Manila” or simply “Arnis”.

Modern Arnis incorporates a wide range of striking, grappling, and weapons techniques, with an emphasis on stick and knife fighting. Practitioners learn to use a variety of weapons, including sticks, knives, swords, and other improvised weapons, as well as empty-hand techniques.

The system emphasizes fluid, flowing movements and employs a variety of striking, blocking, and disarming techniques to neutralize an opponent’s attacks. Modern Arnis is often taught as a practical self-defense system, but can also be practiced as a sport, with practitioners sparring and competing in tournaments.

In addition to its practical applications, Modern Arnis also has a rich cultural heritage and is often studied for its historical and artistic value. It is a popular martial art in the Philippines and has also gained a following in other parts of the world.