I'm a life-long Martial Artist, commenting on the previous disrespectful review that I just read, with all due disgust.
WOW! The NERVE of some people! I have been teaching or studying various systems for most of my life. The comments from the strategically anonymous "Google User", who apparently didn't stick around long enough to even grasp the basics of Kali before assaulting the character of the school, techniques and it's patrons are ignorant and speak volumes of the character of the person who posted them.
I am not associated with this school (yet) due to work related scheduling issues, but have spoken at length to the owner and found him most courteous, knowledgeable and professional.
To disrespect the traditions of an advanced system of martial arts, and to so easily cast disparaging remarks on the proprietors because you can't "wear what you want" makes you the kind of person who is most likely more comfortable taking cardio kickbox at the YMCA. Did you not have to dress for gym in high school? wear a uniform for ANY important team oriented role?
NO traditional and serious school of martial arts is going to let you wear whatever you want to class! You expect to just buy things online to wear for a traditional organization? How embarrassing! Probably why you didn't include your name...
To downplay the value of the techniques offered when you obviously didn't stay long enough to learn anything is ridiculous. Had this person done their homework, they would know that Kali principles are currently employed by US Special Forces, Police and SWAT, as well as many International foreign fighting forces! It's not for the half-hearted.
The style is incredibly effective for real life encounters, and better geared for surviving street confrontations than just about any that I've studied, which is why I was very happy to find a reputable school with such a renowned headmaster in REDMOND! I'm chomping at the bit to start my training here as soon as my schedule permits, and invite you to call the school and see for yourself how welcoming the Guro is.
As far as the system is concerned, Google search YouTube for "Kali" or "Eskrima" or even "Panantukan" and try to keep your jaw from dropping at the ridiculous speed and effectiveness of the techniques. No useless forms or flowery fluttering, it works. In my professional security career, Kali techniques have worked VERY well for me in the past, and though I'm admittedly a novice I love the style, it works, and I can't wait to train here!
I am not going to hide behind anonymity with MY comments, and I really hope whoever posted that laughable review is ashamed of themselves for casually disparaging something that took centuries to build, something that they were simply not cut out for. REAL Martial Arts aren't made to order, or barter. If you're looking to just buy stuff on the internet and do whatever you want in a class, why bother? No serious school is going to deal with that type of attitude. You get what you pay for, and god forbid if that toll comes in the form of an actual street confrontation, you'll wish you had appreciated the value of structure, and the devastating speed and great confidence that Kali offers.
I say this from experience, the same experience that compels me to ask you to see for yourself instead of taking my word for it. Be safe always!