Learning knife defense is not going to save you 100% (Arnis Workshop)
- Admin
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
Updated: May 21
Arnis Knife Defense Workshop Under MEOR Martial Art Academy
For many years, my journey in learning practical knife self-defense has been quite a roller coaster. Initially, I relied on YouTube tutorials, particularly from the long-haired "ang moh" guy. Later, I had formal training in Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), but over time, I lost touch with Arnis/Kali. However, I recently had the opportunity to reconnect, albeit briefly, through a workshop conducted by MEOR Martial Art Academy. This review is based on my observations and experiences from that session.
Workshop Details
Location: Sri KDU International School
Date: End of year 2024
Workshop Structure and Tactical Insights
The training was designed around real-life scenarios, emphasizing the importance of mental preparedness as much as physical technique.
Key takeaways from the workshop included:
Knife Defense: Accepting the Harsh Reality of Pain
Knife defense is not a fail-safe method—cuts and injuries are possible even for the most skilled practitioners. The key lesson in knife self-defense is accepting that you may get cut.
Learning knife defense is not going to save you 100%
The best self-defense is always prevention. Experts such as Paulo Rubio (Knife Instructor Military/LE/Civilian) featured in Karate Nerd mention that knife attacks often occur unexpectedly—sometimes with little or no warning. To minimize the risk of becoming a target, many incidents can be prevented by maintaining vigilance and awareness.
The rule of thumb is to be vigilant and recognize signs of danger:
-avoid walking alone in dark alleys,
-be aware of your surroundings,
-and look out for suspicious behavior.
If danger was prevalent and unavoidable, the truth is that no knife defense technique is 100% foolproof, and FMA teaches you to be mentally prepared to handle the situation rather than freeze in trauma. As highlighted by both our instructor, Guro Meor, and insights from industry experts, learning knife defense is, in part, about conditioning yourself to endure pain while attempting to disarm an attacker (if engagement is necessary).
Guro Meor had training sessions with Paulo Rubio in the Phillipines.
Decision-Making Under Pressure: Increasing Your Chances of Survival
The core concept of the workshop was to: -
assess whether escape is an option- Can You Run Away? If Yes—Do It.
have reactions to incoming knife attacks through a variety of techniques—blocking, controlling, trapping, and disarming. - If You Can’t Run—Engage Smartly.
Multiple realistic simulations scenarios to mirror actual threats:
The workshop incorporated multiple stressful scenarios to simulate real-life threats. One key lesson was avoiding getting cornered. Guro Meor emphasized always identifying exits to prevent being trapped.
Feint & Run: If there’s an opening, use feint movements to create an opening for an escape opportunity.
Grab, Defend & Run: If objects are available that can be as shields, use them as defensive techniques to buy you time to escape.
If You Can’t Run—Engage Smartly. Should You Fight Back?
The training also explored the risks associated with counterattacking:-
Scenario 1: Kicking Back Against Two Aggressors
The victim (a martial artist) initially evades the attack but chooses to counterattack.
The result? He gets slashed and potentially ends up sustaining cuts (potentially serious wounds)
Lesson: Engaging with multiple aggressors is a high-risk decision. Running remains the best option.
Scenario 2: Full Engagement with One Aggressor
The victim (martial artist) uses a disarm technique and successfully removes the knife and wanted to continue engage
However, the aggressor was able to counterattack by tackling the victim down.
Lesson: Even with successful disarmament, an aggressor may still be a threat. Escape remains the best choice once there is an opening to run if possible.
Who Is Meor?
Meor is a lifelong martial arts practitioner with expertise in multiple disciplines. His credentials include black belt qualifications in 3 distinct FMA systems—
Dagooc Arnis System
Pekiti-Tirsia Kali
Harimau Nickelstick Balintawak (just recently he got certified)
His approach is characterized by remarkable speed and precision with both sticks and knives, combined with a genuine willingness to share his knowledge. In Malaysia, where certified Arnis practitioners are few, Guro Meor’s dedication makes Meor an invaluable asset to the FMA community.
Final Verdict
What I’ve shared here is just a fraction of what I learned during the workshop. The most valuable aspect was the hands-on experience—blocking, counteracting knife attacks, and participating in scenario simulations.
Filipino Martial Arts (Arnis/Kali) is a hidden gem in practical, weapon-based self-defense. Workshops like these are ideal for anyone looking to refine their skills or for beginners (especially women) to understand the mechanics of self-protection. Learning a few effective techniques and practicing them at home can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.
Fun fact:
Meor Martial Art Academy frequently conducts Arnis/Kali workshops,
He conducts “pressure Test” monthly (Open Sparring using different martial arts skills with a weapon).
Considering Weapon-based Martial Arts?
If you're looking for a martial art that is purely self-defense and very practical, Arnis/Kali (Filipinio Martial Art), may be the perfect fit for you. If Arnis/Kali piques your interest, consider exploring Arnis/Kali classes near you.
Disclaimer: The author is a martial arts enthusiast and enjoys learning from others.When she has free time, she randomly pops into a gym (without being invited) to try out. This review reflects her personal observations and experience at Meor Martial Art Academy and do not necessarily represent the views of others. Your personal experience may vary and she highly recommends visiting the gym to experience it firsthand as it is the best way to determine if it meets your needs.
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