Pencak Silat Training Exercise 2

A west-central Sumatran tactic of the Kumango style, this exercise is intended to develop a deceptive forward stepping action which may be instantly transformed into a forward straight-line snap kick. It is a tactic designed for use on sandy ground or terrain with a loose topsoil, where footing is precarious and movement less quick than on hard, flat ground. Variations of this technique may be used to force an enemy backwards.

METHOD. Assume a Kumango-style combative posture as you step forward with your right foot. Stretch your left arm out parallel to the ground, with the opened palm facing a bit forward and downward. Slap the inside of your upper right thigh with your right palm (# 1). If the enemy has closed in quickly, and if you are on natural terrain, drop quickly into a low crouch, scoop up loose earth or stones, and fling them into the enemy’s face to drive him backward (# 2). This tactic may be omitted if it seems unnecessary. Now rise immediately and bring your trailing left foot forward, slapping the upper part of your left thigh with your left palm; your right hand and arm are carried well forward, anticipating blocking or parryings requirements (# 3) ; fake a forward snap kick with your left leg before you actually put it down (# 4). Immediately begin taking another step forward with your right foot and carry your left arm out to your left side as before; again slap your upper right thigh with your right hand (# 5). As you place your right foot on the ground, quickly shift your weight onto it and deliver a forceful forward snap kick with your trailing left leg which now goes directly into the kick instead of making another fake kick or step (# 6 and # 7). The Kumango sequence of forward step, fake kick, forward step, and then the actual kick, supposes that the enemy is retreating; the illustrations show the minimum movement, which can, of course, be lengthened to as many steps and fake kicks as may seem appropriate to the situation.