Functional Filipino Martial Arts for the Modern World

Train timing, distance, awareness, and pressure through a lineage-driven system of eskrima, kali, and practical self defense.

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Traditional Lineage

Rooted in Inayan Eskrima, Cacoy Doce Pares, VL Kali, Kajukenbo, and Jeet Kune Do influences.

Practical Application

Train through drills, sparring, timing, positioning, and adaptive problem-solving.

Structured Progression

Build real skill through a progressive system designed for long-term growth.

  • Filipino Martial Arts is an umbrella term for a primarily weapon-oriented method of combat that practitioners commonly refer to as “arnis”, “es(k/c)rima”, or “kali”; the same way a “car” is a “vehicle” is an “automobile”. The vastness and variety of the Philippines contain a myriad of unique-but-connected cultures and dialects, so we approach FMA with a lateral view of the principles rather than memorizing isolated techniques with respect to regional terminology.

  • Our literacy based teaching methodology allows for practitioners of all experience levels to hit the ground running when they begin their journey with us. Focusing on the overarching principles of effective combat makes it easy for participants from all levels of skill, knowledge, and experience to seamlessly integrate our teachings into their own expression.

  • While sparring is critical for obtaining the full scope of any combat system, and essential for our competitive athletes, the Filipino Martial Arts covers such a wide range of physical skills that effectively and efficiently represent the “art” as well as the “martial” with respect for both. Students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, but never forced.

  • Class gets you moving! It is recommended to wear something you can comfortably stretch and move in, a shirt & athletic bottoms will do. Mat shoes allowed.

  • At Dragon Sticks FMA, we beieve that martial arts should enhance your life–not replace it. However, you get out of your training what you put into it and consistent study & practice is the only real way to unlock the benefits of Filipino Martial Arts training.

  • Our structured drill platforms are specifically designed to be accessible and beneficial to all physicalities. Turn your “one day” into your “Day 1” with us in the east SF Bay Area!

  • Every day, and you don’t need a mat to do so. Train your focus when the day drags on, hone your discipline when life gets hard, and channel your resilience with the lessons and experiences you’ve practiced on the mat with us!

“Through life’s ups and downs, Dragon Sticks has created a space for me to feel grounded, safe, and challenged to grow both on and off the mat.”

— Jamee, sinawali student

Guro Adrian Hipolito is a lifelong martial enthusiast with roots in Filipino Martial Arts, Kajukenbo, Boxing and influence from Jeet Kune Do, Wrestling, and BJJ.

Guro Arnel Mendoza, founder of Dragon Sticks, cultivated the art over 40+ years of training and has shared his passion with hundreds over three decades of instruction.

Whether your goal is self-defense, competition, fitness, or martial arts development, Dragon Sticks FMA is designed to make you more capable than when you walked in.

Comfortably homed within Dragons Den MMA

Train with Purpose