…..Okay when I was first introduced to Espada Y Daga as a youth it was an amazing combination of bladed weapon training. Today twenty six or so years later I still enjoy it as much if not more than I did then. I like doing the simple drills over and over again you know the kind where you get off line and outside of your opponents strike and you either underneath cross parry or over the top cross parry and then you check slightly above the elbow and thrust. I have no idea how many times I have done that either alone or with a partner. (probably millions) Simple effective and efficient movement with the Long and short knife is a pleasure to watch as well as train in. The other day during some morning sessions I had the opportunity to train with some students practicing just being the first to cut, check and thrust or slash. Back and forth, back and forth until this type of movement becomes instinctive! I enjoyed practicing with the seasoned practitioner as he is smooth and moves in a manner that continually places himself at a strategic advantage. When practicing with the newer practitioner he hesitated here and there but was making progress the whole time. That truthfully is fun to watch. Someone making progress with the long and short knife while training. When training with the long knife and dagger because you are using both hands you are developing coordination that will serve you well with or without tools. This type of coordination in your off hand pays off immensely down the road as you work that off hand up to a level where you can use it effectively, efficiently and with devastating consequences if you need to. That is one of the hidden jewels of long knife and dagger training. (Off hand coordination) So if you practice the Filipino Martial Arts or a system that utilizes multiple tools at the same time embrace the training as it is something special! 🙂
See You On The Mats!
Brian R. VanCise
Note: This Blog is opinion only and Instinctive Response Training LLC nor Brian R. VanCise is responsible for any third party actions taken.
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