Supplementary Martial Arts
Between them, our primary martial art systems (Kung-Fu and Escrima) contain solutions for virtually every practical combat situation that we are concerned with. However there are always exceptions and specific skills which are best learnt through other disciplines – which is where our two supplementary arts (Grappling and Historical Weapons) come into play.
Grappling
The study of grappling provides extensive knowledge of close-range and ground-based possibilities if the need arises, or if we choose to control instead of strike.
Grappling is the supplementary unarmed discipline of the UKKFF. Many of our instructors enjoy, and are versed in grappling techniques, and we have hosted seminars for guest instructors to help us explore this interesting area of close-range & ground-based combat. These include professional MMA fighter Robert ‘Bobby’ Sundel (Sweden), and champion tournament fighter Nic K’Osei (Denmark).
The term grappling is commonly applied to all martial arts whose emphasis is on the control, restraint & incapacitation of an opponent via throws, take-downs, locks & holds, and again the term covers many popular disciplines such as Judo, BJJ (Brazilian Ju-Jitsu), Submission Wrestling and Shooto. Although some grappling arts do contain a striking element, it is not usually the primary focus of the discipline.
The UKKFF is mainly concerned with the striking arts, however no serious martial artist can ignore the possibilities offered by the study of grappling, not least because of the balance, control & body awareness which the discipline can provide.
Grappling training is available to all UKKFF members via private tuition, and is sometimes added to our larger seminars as a supplementary training opportunity too.
Historical Weapons
Training with historical weaponry never fails to bring a new-found respect for the knowledge, ability & efforts of our ancestors.
Historical weapons is the supplementary armed discipline of the UKKFF. We explore this fascinating area of combat via the knowledge of Master Steve Tappin, and his long-standing involvement with the European Historical Combat Guild.
Considering the influence of film & television, it is tempting to think that only foreign countries possessed exotic combat skills. However British & European history is replete with wars & battles, and indeed the British Empire once spanned the globe. The indigenous armed & unarmed fighting skills of our nation have influenced the martial arts of many other countries, as we in turn have been influenced by theirs. Such is the nature of constant development. There is much to be learned by studying the traditional weaponry of our own culture; swords, shields, spears, polearms, bows & arrows, and the rich diversity of personal armament from the medieval period.
Historical Weapons training is available to all UKKFF members via private tuition, and is sometimes added to our larger seminars as a supplementary training opportunity too.