Stick
THE ART OF THE STICK
A living, constantly evolving system. Three stick variants. Taught in 50+ countries.
- 12 levelsfrom beginner to expert
- Online + in personApp, courses and centers
- No experience neededStart at level 1
- 4.8 App Store · 126 ratings
- 5,200+ technique videos
- 60,000+ registered users
- Trainer of police and special forces
What is SAMI Stick Fighting?
SAMI Stick Fighting is a modern stick combat system influenced by Filipino martial arts (Arnis, Escrima, Kali). It teaches the effective use of single stick, double sticks, and stick-and-dagger combinations.
The system emphasizes fluid movement, angle-based attacks, and practical self-defense applications – combining centuries-old weapon traditions with contemporary training methodology.
- 01
Single Stick Fundamentals
The foundation of SAMI Stick Fighting:
12-angle striking system
blocks, deflections, and counter-attacks
footwork and distance management
Single stick training develops coordination, timing, and combat awareness that transfers to empty-hand skills.
- 02
Double Stick & Sinawali
Double stick training (Sinawali) develops:
ambidextrous coordination
continuous flowing patterns
simultaneous attack and defense
These drills build neurological pathways that dramatically improve reaction time and bilateral coordination.
- 03
Practical Self-Defense Applications
SAMI Stick Fighting goes beyond sport and tradition:
defense against armed and unarmed attacks
use of improvised stick-like objects (umbrellas, canes, bottles)
scenario-based training for realistic situations
Every technique is tested for real-world applicability under stress.
Who Is SAMI Stick Fighting For?
- Filipino martial arts enthusiasts
- People seeking better coordination and reflexes
- Martial artists from other disciplines
- Self-defense practitioners
- Instructors expanding their curriculum
Not required: previous weapon training, high athletic performance, and special equipment beyond training sticks
12 levels – from your first session to expert
Every level has clear goals. You take your exams online or at a center and receive your official SAMI diploma.
- Level 1–4FundamentalsThe foundation of stick combat. 12-angle striking system, basic blocks, deflections and counter-attacks. Footwork, distance management, and single stick fundamentals.No prior experience needed.
- Level 5–8Advanced TechniquesDouble stick & Sinawali patterns. Bilateral coordination drills, continuous flowing patterns, simultaneous attack and defense.
- Level 9–12Mastery & TeachingAll three variants mastered. Short stick, mid-length cane, and long stick at expert level. Sparring, scenario-based training, teaching methodology, and didactics of stick fighting …
Choose your path
In the app
Videos, guided trainings and live trainings – whenever and wherever you want.Start for freeOnline course with certificate
Stick level by level, with an exam and an official SAMI diploma.View courseAt a center
With a coach and a group at a SAMI center near you – request your trial class directly from the center.Find a trial classBecome an instructor
The certified SAMI instructor education for Stick.View the education
Next seminar: All Stick seminars · All training formats
Start today – for free
Full Membership
Recommended… / month
- 5 Combat Systems: Krav Maga, Panantukan, Stick, Knife, and Axe
- Learning tracks and guided trainings
- Live trainings
- Online certification
Exams at a center: SAMI International Membership · Learn more
Peter Weckauf
Founder of the SAMI Combat Systems. Trainer of police and special forces, seminars in over 50 countries.
About SAMI
Questions about Stick
The six most important ones here, all others below.
Is SAMI Stick Fighting suitable for beginners?
Yes. The system is structured progressively – you start with basic angles and strikes and gradually build toward more complex drills and sparring.
What equipment do I need?
For training you need:
Rattan training sticks (standard length ~70 cm)
Optional: padded training sticks for sparring
Optional: protective gear for advanced sparring
Many solo drills can also be practiced with any stick-like object.
How does SAMI Stick Fighting relate to traditional Filipino martial arts?
SAMI Stick Fighting draws its technical foundation from Arnis, Escrima, and Kali but adapts and refines the techniques for modern self-defense contexts. The respect for tradition is maintained while ensuring practical applicability.
Can I use stick fighting for real self-defense?
Yes. The principles of distance management, angle recognition, and reflex training from stick fighting transfer directly to self-defense situations – even without a stick. Everyday objects like umbrellas, canes, or rolled magazines can serve as improvised tools.
Do I need a training partner?
Many drills – including striking patterns, Sinawali flows, and footwork exercises – can be trained solo. Partner training is recommended for sparring and disarming techniques but is not required to start learning.
History and philosophy of Stick
SAMICS Stick Fighting Concept is a living, constantly evolving system based on our knowledge and experience. The organization teaches three stick variants: short-length stick (single and two-handed), mid-length stick (cane), and long stick.
Training Philosophy
Training emphasizes effectiveness, speed, dynamics, timing, precision and its typical flow of action. The system treats the whole body as a weapon, which explains its own discrete identity.
SAMI Combat System's mission is to promote and share Stick Fighting Concept around the world with the best quality and at the highest technical level. The organization operates in over 50 countries. Instructor requirements include thorough training covering technical expertise, skill training, and didactics of stick fighting coursework.
Our motto: "Good is not good enough!"
4 more questions
Can stick fighting be trained online?
Yes. Solo drills, striking patterns, footwork, and many Sinawali combinations can be effectively trained online. Live seminars and in-person training complement the online experience with partner work and sparring.
What is the difference between single and double stick training?
Single stick focuses on range, power, and defensive structure with one weapon.
Double stick (Sinawali) trains bilateral coordination, continuous flow, and ambidextrous ability. Both are essential parts of the SAMI Stick Fighting curriculum.
Can I become a certified SAMI Stick Fighting instructor?
Yes. SAMI offers a structured Instructor Education Program for Stick Fighting with defined modules and certification levels, open to participants with or without prior teaching experience.
Three Sticks. Three Worlds.
Each stick variant has its own identity — but all share the same combat philosophy.
Short Stick · ~70 cm
Fast. Concealable. Compact.
The short stick (~70 cm) is the classic FMA weapon. Perfect for fast striking combinations, Sinawali drills, and concealed carry. Trained single-handed and two-handed.
Typical use: Close combat, self-defense, fast reactions
Mid-Length / Cane · ~90 cm
Discreet. Everyday. Effective.
The mid-length stick or walking cane is a legal everyday object — and a highly effective defensive weapon. Leverage, control techniques, and distance weapon in one.
Typical use: Everyday defense, seniors, inconspicuous
Long Stick · ~130 cm
Maximum reach. Tradition.
The long stick offers maximum range and combines traditional techniques with modern combat training. Strikes, thrusts, sweeps, and control grips.
Typical use: Range, tradition, advanced training
Ready for level 1?
Free, no credit card – Stick is set up for you right away.
