When I take a layman’s perspective on effective distance, it is easy to conclude that for arts such as TKD, the sweet spot seems to the longer range. With Jiu-Jitsu, obviously the close range. But Arnis has significant set of techniques at all three ranges, from a long range with the sticks, to medium with open hand and some of the kicks and finally the close range. So is there a sweet spot in arnis? Are all ranges the sweet spot(s)? Or is it really up to the practitioners to find their own.

Personally, I think it is really up to the practitioner and my personal sweet spot is close and just to the outside of my opponent’s side. This is just a matter of the x-pattern forward to the left or right. I find this spot to be the most uncomfortable for most partners since 1) I’m on the outside and 2) I’m at an uncomfortably close range. This is the space bubble people talk about. This is the space that people on the street show their bravado with by getting into people’s faces and people pushing people out of this space. But this is also where, to me, the arnisador is most comfortable, not only with being on the outside, but this close range. This is where one has the advantage, because we can maneuver in these close confines and also manipulate the opponent’s body.

So lately I’ve been teaching my students that, as always, if the option exists, run away (more on this later), but if you have no choice and the combat is empty hand, then close in. Preferably to the sides, but even straight in because this is where most people do not have a significant arsenal of techniques. Close in and from there determine whether the situation calls for an arm lock or a throw or a break.