Florete #1

By: Ferd, PTK-Peninsula/PTK-SMF

Here's an example of a Pekiti-Tirsia tactic being properly executed at the appropriate range and timing - Guro Randy of PTK-SMF San Jose (tan shirt) scores a perfect florete #1 to my hand. We're both at what we call tirsia largo range but Randy had superior timing, therefore scoring a beautiful hit.

Quite often when we see FMA people spar and they decide to use some twirling attacks, there's not a lot of control in their weapons. In fact there's not a lot of control in general.

The PTK-SMF standard is mastery of edge weapons and its training methodology actually teaches to realistically transfer and execute the techniques of Pekiti-Tirsia Kali into sparring. Even when sparring with impact weapons, we maintain those high technical standards and wear minimal or no protective equipment so that strikes are instantly recognized. We strive to develop higher combative skills and deeper understanding of the technical aspects of blade fighting.

It doesn't take much skill to swing wildly and just be aggressive. But it takes a lot of skill to strike with precision and control, especially with a blade; attributes that are consistent in all edge weapon arts, whether it is FMA, European or Japanese swordship.