The Silat School You've Probably Never Heard Of

Introduction

This tutorial provides insights into the unique Silat school, Perguruan Sabda Sunda, located in Bogor, Indonesia. Through an interview with Guru Agung Nurrohmat and his U.S. student Efron, we’ll explore the philosophy, techniques, and experiences associated with this lesser-known martial arts school.

Step 1: Understand the Philosophy of Perguruan Sabda Sunda

• Cultural Heritage: Recognize that Perguruan Sabda Sunda integrates traditional Indonesian culture with martial arts.
• Spiritual Aspect: Emphasize the importance of spiritual growth alongside physical training. Guru Agung explains that this school focuses not just on fighting techniques but on cultivating a warrior's spirit.
• Community Values: Acknowledge the role of community within the training. Students support one another, creating a strong bond among practitioners.

Step 2: Learn the Fundamental Techniques

• Basic Movements: Familiarize yourself with the foundational movements of Silat, which include stances, footwork, and strikes.
  • Practice the following stances:
    • Sikap Pasang: A basic fighting stance.
    • Sikap Sedia: A readiness position.
  • Work on footwork drills to enhance agility.
• Defensive Techniques: Focus on defensive maneuvers such as blocking and evading attacks.
• Application of Techniques: Engage in controlled sparring sessions to apply learned techniques in a practical context.

Step 3: Participate in Community Classes

• Join Local Classes: Seek out local classes of Perguruan Sabda Sunda or similar Silat schools to gain hands-on experience.
• Connect with Instructors: Learn directly from experienced instructors who can provide personalized guidance and feedback.
• Engage with Fellow Students: Build relationships with peers for mutual support and practice opportunities.

Step 4: Embrace Continuous Learning

• Study the History of Silat: Research the origins and evolution of Silat to deepen your understanding of its techniques and philosophies.
• Attend Workshops and Seminars: Participate in special training events to expand your skill set and meet other practitioners.
• Utilize Online Resources: Explore online content, such as videos and articles, to supplement your learning.

Conclusion

In summary, engaging with Perguruan Sabda Sunda offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of Silat beyond mere physical combat. By understanding its philosophy, mastering fundamental techniques, participating in classes, and committing to continuous learning, you can greatly enhance your martial arts journey. For further information or to connect with the school, consider reaching out through their social media or email.