Learn practical self-defense and mental resilience through Inayan Eskrima
Catalyst Martial Arts teaches weapon-based and empty-hand combat for adults seeking effective self-defense, physical challenge, and personal growth. Train in a system designed for real-world situations, not sport competition. No prior experience required.
Eskrima (also called Arnis or Kali) is a weapons-based martial art from the Philippines. Unlike most martial arts that eventually introduce weapons, Eskrima starts with them - you learn stick and knife combat first, then translate those principles to empty-hand fighting.
Why? Train with a stick or knife, and you develop precision, timing, and adaptability fast. Those skills transfer directly to fists, elbows, knees, and grappling.
The Inayan System
Founded by Mangisursuro Mike Inay in the 1970s, the Inayan System emphasizes practical effectiveness over tradition for tradition's sake. It's designed for real-world self-defense, not sport competition or demonstration.
Key Principles:
Instantaneous adaptation - responding to unpredictable threats without hesitation
All ranges of combat - from long-range weapon fighting to close-range grappling
No wasted movement - every technique has a purpose
This isn't about collecting techniques or memorizing forms. It's about becoming someone who can handle chaos, adapt to pressure, and move with confidence.
Not a Sport. Not a Hobby. A Practice.
We don't compete in tournaments. We don't do demonstrations. We train to be effective, period. That means scenario-based drills, stress inoculation, and techniques that actually work when adrenaline kicks in.
If you want to become genuinely capable, this is exactly what you need.
I've trained in Inayan Eskrima for 15+ years and had the privilege to train directly under Mangisursuro Mike Inay (founder of the Inayan System) and continuing with his son, Suro Jason Inay, current Grandmaster of the system.
After a 13-year break to raise my family and build my career, I returned to training and rediscovered what I'd been missing: the clarity, confidence, and adaptability that come from martial training. The warrior mindset isn't just about fighting - it's about navigating life's challenges with purpose and resilience.
That's what Catalyst Martial Arts is about: building better humans through martial arts. Not just teaching techniques, but developing people who can face obstacles, adapt to pressure, and grow through challenges.
My background as a mental health professional informs how I teach, but this isn't therapy - it's training. Hard, practical, transformative training that makes you more capable in every area of life.
The Catalyst Philosophy
Every challenge is an opportunity to Overcome, Adapt, and Grow. That triangle represents our approach: when you face an obstacle, you adapt your strategy and grow stronger through the process. That's not just martial arts philosophy - that's how you build an unshakeable mindset.
The Lineage
Inayan Eskrima was founded by Mangisursuro Mike Inay, one of the pioneers of Filipino martial arts in the United States. Training in this system connects you to a lineage of practical, effective combat arts refined over decades. This isn't a modern fitness trend - it's a warrior tradition with deep roots and proven methods.
Classes
Your First Class
Show up 10 minutes early in comfortable workout clothes. No equipment needed - we'll provide training sticks.
We start with a warmup to get you in your body and out of your head. Then we'll teach you the fundamentals: how to hold the stick, basic angles of attack, simple defensive patterns. You'll learn through movement, not lecture.
Classes are structured but adapt to who's in the room. Beginners train alongside more experienced students - everyone learns from each other. There's no ego, no judgment, just focused work.
What You'll Learn
Stick fighting and weapon defense
Empty-hand striking, grappling, and takedowns
Knife defense fundamentals
Multiple-attacker scenarios
Adaptability under pressure
The warrior mindset: clarity, decisiveness, resilience
Schedule
Tuesday: 4:45-5:45pm
Friday: 4:45-5:45pm
Pricing
Wolfpack members: $45/month
Non-members: $55/month
First class: FREE
What to Bring
Just yourself and an open mind. We provide equipment for beginners.
Who This Is For
People who want practical skills, not sport trophies. Adults (men and women) who are tired of fitness routines that don't challenge them mentally. Anyone who wants to feel capable, not just fit.
You don't need to be tough to start. You become tough by training.
No. Most students start with zero background. We teach progressively - you learn fundamentals first, build on them over time.
What should I wear?
Comfortable workout clothes. Athletic shorts/pants, t-shirt. We train barefoot.
Do I need equipment?
Not for your first class. If you continue, we equipment to buy. Otherwise you can borrow equipment until you're ready to purchase.
Is this safe?
Yes. Training is controlled and progressive. You learn at your own pace. Injuries are rare and usually minor (bruises, not breaks). Safety protocols are always in place.
I'm out of shape. Can I still train?
Yes. Eskrima is about technique and timing, not brute strength or cardio. You'll get in better shape as you train, but fitness isn't a prerequisite.
How is this different from other martial arts?
Eskrima is weapons-first (sticks, knives) and emphasizes practical self-defense over forms or sport. It has deep technical foundations and a structured curriculum for effective training.
What's the time commitment?
Classes meet twice weekly (Tuesday/Friday). Most students attend 1-2 times per week depending on schedule. Consistency matters more than frequency.
What if I just want to try one class?
Perfect. First class is free. Come see if it's for you. No sales pitch, no pressure.
