Bare- handed’

Fitness pro Dr Komal talks about how martial arts have helped her grow physically and spiritually

haps the best weapons that exist today. They are blunt and don’t cut like blades. With appropriate body and headgear, one can spar with sticks and without injury. It’s safe, fun and teaches you to fight. ORIGIN OF KALI STICK FIGHTING

Mount Banahaw is a holy volcanic mountain i n Phillipines, where a secret Doce Pares society practiced Kali. Kali is the newer western word for Escrima ( means Spanish fencing), or Stick fighting, derived from Indian goddess Kali and from the words Ka that means hand and Li that means craft. INDIAN WOMEN AND MARTIAL ARTS:

A l l w o m e n need to gain confidence in order to stand tall in this male dominated society and the practice of any martial art gets you there.

Jeet Kune Do helps reduce instances of molestation, rape and gender harassment. We train over 200 women every year, ranging from teenage students to corporate women, call centre executives and housewives. In fact, men and women train together. Women could enroll in weekend programs in martial arts such as Kali, Jeet Kune Do and Muay Thai or Brazilain Jiu Jitsu. FAMILY SUPPORT:

My parents are proud of me. At 30, I am extremely fit, have no excess fat and can run 10 kms with ease.

I can do push- ups, chin- ups and of course fight any man bare- handed or with a weapon!

DR KOMAL