The conditioning program at Circling Dragons is built around Sinawali stick fighting, a Filipino martial arts discipline that develops coordination, timing, endurance, and fluid weapon handling. Students who complete the program earn a certification in Sinawali stick fighting.
What Is Sinawali
Sinawali is a weaving pattern system used in Filipino martial arts (Eskrima / Arnis / Kali). It trains coordination between both hands using rattan sticks, developing ambidexterity, timing, and the ability to attack and defend simultaneously. The name comes from the Tagalog word for “weaving.”
What Students Learn
The certification program covers:
- Single stick fundamentals — Grip, stance, basic striking angles, and defensive responses
- Double stick (Sinawali) patterns — Coordinated weaving patterns that develop bilateral coordination and flow
- Partner drills — Feeding patterns, counter-for-counter exchanges, and controlled sparring
- Transitions — Moving between single stick, double stick, and empty-hand applications
What to Expect
Stick fighting training is structured as a conditioning and certification track. Classes meet Tuesday nights (6:00–6:30 PM start) and Saturday mornings (11:00 AM–12:00 PM). The pace is physically demanding — sessions build endurance, reflexes, and bilateral coordination alongside technical skill. Students work through a defined set of skills and patterns, demonstrating competence at each level before advancing. Training involves contact with padded or rattan sticks and students are expected to use appropriate safety equipment.
Progression
The certification program follows a structured progression from basic patterns through advanced combinations and partner application. Students are evaluated on technique, timing, coordination, and the ability to maintain flow under pressure.