Developing body flexibility in Kalari

Meypayattu or physical training is an important part of Kalaripayattu training. Training of this ancient art form is noted for its focus on both body and mind.

This scientific and systematic art is considered to be the mother of martial arts in the world.

Scientifically arranged and well graded series of exercises are there for physical agility. Co-ordination of mind and body is emphasized in these training programmes formulated by the ancient masters.

Meypayattu (mey means body in local parlance and payattu, exercise) is the physical training. Rigorous exercises for hand, legs and other body parts forms part of Meypayattu.

Twelve kinds of exercises are there for legs. There are also regulations on how to perform leaps and jumps.

Basic exercises like Iruthikkaal and Soochikkiruthal are also performed as part of the exercises.

The video is taken from CVN Kalari, Thiruvananthapuram.

There is also a scientific medicine system called Kalarichikilsa associated with this martial art. Kalarichikilsa, the herbal medicine system is highly effective for bruises and sprains.

There are two styles of Kalaripayattu; the North Kerala and South Kerala styles.