Pencak Silat Fundamentals

Pencak silat (pronounced penchak silat and sometimes spelled pentjak silat in Western writings) is an umbrella term for a class of related martial arts originating in Indonesia. It is a full-body fighting form incorporating strikes, grappling and throwing in addition to weaponry. Every part of the body is used and subject to attack. Pencak silat was practiced not only for physical defense but also for psychological ends.