KAPWA FMA/Wellness

Mabuhay! 

Thank you for your interest in joining Centre Kapwa's FMA-based and inspired wellness programming lead by Jeff and assisted by Veronica in Tiotia:ke/colonially known as Montréal. 

Centre Kapwa is a volunteer-led organization serving the mental health and wellbeing of Filipinx youth and families. Our programmings are led, organised, and guided by members themselves with a "for us, by us" approach. 

This programming is free
but you must be a member to join this gathering.
(click here to become a member)

Please take time to read the Centre Kapwa Mission & Values, as well as the Community Agreements. Participants are expected to respect them. 

Since this is a physical activity, you are expected to advocate for your body and to respect your limitations. You will not be judged for needing any accomodation, especially those experiencing chronic pain and disability. Taking breaks is highly encouraged. 

Any discriminatory languages, behaviours will not be tolerated. We reserve the right to ask anyone violating these terms to leave the premises. 

Overview: 

Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) is a combination of different martial art practices that originated in several regions of the islands of the Philippines. It is also commonly known as Kali, Arnis, and Eskrima, using empty-handed techniques and long blade weapons. With the invasion and occupation during Spanish rule for over 300 years, the pre-colonial martial art practice was banned due to its lethal impact.

However, practitioners have kept the martial arts alive by incorporating the practice into different movement mediums like dance and performing arts. 

Centre Kapwa aims to continue the martial arts practice and fulfill the mission of movement for mental health and wellbeing. During the 2023 Kapwa Rising conference organised by Centre Kapwa, FMA practitioner Master JB Ramos led an introductory class. Together with Toronto queer Filipino elders, participants revisited Philippine history through the eyes of survivors of the community. The classes have planted the seed to reclaim the once banned martial art, while being mindful of the struggles that many practitioners have endured. Moreover, attendees have also expressed improvement in their wellbeing as it provided a space to move their body and reach a meditative state of mind.

Frequently asked questions

    • Physical movements

    • Stretching

    • FMA moves

    • Visual materials prepared by Jeff

    • A cooling down Qi Gong-style

    • Philippine history & culture

    • Community, safe space, skill sharing.

    • Gym clothes (prepare to sweat)

    • Your sticks (very limited sticks available)

    • Water bottle (SHIFT provides filtered water)

    • Enthusiasm, respect, punctuality.

  • The Shift Centre For Social Transformation

    1400 Blvd. De Maisonneuve Ouest, LB 145
    Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8

    Google Maps Link

  • Fall semester, every Monday from 6pm to 8pm starting on August 31, until December 21 except on holidays. People who have registered will be notified in the event of a scheduling change. 

  • Some attendees bought their sticks at Kontact Sports

Unlike the traditional martial arts classes found in regular gyms, Kapwa FMA/wellness is rooted in physical wellbeing. No physical combat is permitted. Kapwa FMA/wellness is an alternative for those looking to connect with their mind, body and soul through a Filipino cultural practice.

Disclaimer: Only the Centre Kapwa organising team will be privy to the information provided for the purposes of improving our programming.

Sign-Up & Registration