Adult Kali Self-Defense
Filipino Martial Arts Training for Adults in Troy, MI
Kali is one of the most practical and effective self-defense systems on the planet. Developed over centuries in the Philippines, it teaches you to protect yourself using empty hands, single stick, double stick, and stick and dagger. This isn’t choreography. It’s real-world adult Kali self-defense that works.
Now available for the first time at Mastery Martial Arts — Troy.
What Is Adult Kali Self-Defense?
Kali (also known as Arnis or Eskrima) is the indigenous fighting art of the Philippines. Unlike most martial arts that start with empty-hand techniques and add weapons later, Kali starts with weapons and works backward. The logic is simple: if you can defend against a blade, you can defend against anything.
The system has been battle-tested for centuries and is used today by military and law enforcement units around the world, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and U.S. Special Operations personnel. It’s not a sport. It’s a survival system built for close-quarters combat and real self-defense situations. Learn more about Arnis/Kali on Wikipedia.
What You’ll Learn
Our adult Kali self-defense program covers four core training areas, each designed to build practical skill you can actually use.
Single Stick
The foundation of Kali. Learn striking patterns, angles of attack, defensive counters, and flow drills using a single rattan stick. Builds coordination, timing, and reflexes fast.
Double Stick
Two weapons, both hands working independently. Double stick training develops ambidexterity, spatial awareness, and the ability to attack and defend simultaneously.
Stick & Dagger
Known as Espada y Daga. One long weapon, one short. This trains you to fight at multiple ranges and control distance — a critical skill in any real confrontation.
Empty Hand
Everything you learn with a weapon translates directly to empty-hand combat. Strikes, trapping, joint locks, and close-quarters techniques that work when you have nothing but your hands.
Why Kali?
Who Is Adult Kali Self-Defense For?
This adult Kali self-defense class is designed for adults who want to learn real self-defense in a focused, respectful training environment. You do not need any prior martial arts experience. We also offer other martial arts programs for kids and adults.
Complete Beginners
Never trained a day in your life? Good. We start from scratch and build your skills step by step. No experience required.
Martial Arts Parents
Your kids train here. Now it’s your turn. Get your own training time while your children are in class — or on a different night entirely.
Experienced Martial Artists
Already have a background in another art? Kali will challenge you in new ways and add a weapons-based skill set to your toolbox.
Your Instructor
This program is led by Denny Strecker, founder of Mastery Martial Arts and a martial artist with over 33 years of training experience. Denny has studied multiple systems of Kali and Escrima under experienced practitioners, and brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to self-defense instruction.
His teaching philosophy is simple: learn skills that work, train them until they’re second nature, and build the confidence that comes from knowing you can protect yourself and your family. Learn more about Mastery Martial Arts and our instructors.
Common Questions About Adult Kali Self-Defense
Do I need to be in good shape to start?
No. You’ll get in shape by training. We meet you where you are and help you build from there.
Do I need to buy equipment?
Not right away. We provide training sticks and gear for your trial period. Once you’re enrolled, we’ll help you get set up with your own equipment.
Is this a fighting class? Will I get hit?
This is a self-defense training class, not a fight club. We train with control and respect. Partner drills are cooperative, not competitive — especially as you’re learning.
What’s the class schedule?
Class days and times will be announced soon. Sign up below and we’ll notify you as soon as the schedule is set.
How much does it cost?
Start with a free 14-day trial, no strings attached. We’ll go over pricing and membership options during your trial so you can make an informed decision.
Start Your Free 14-Day Trial
Fill out the form below and we’ll reach out to get you scheduled. No commitment. No risk. Just training.