International Academy of Kalarippayat Studies

There is of course no substitute for face-to-face learning however there is a lot you can learn from solo practice that will prepare you for working with a partner. All the attributes of the warrior: Balance, flow, power, flexibility, confidence, humility, focus; all these are attainable through daily practice. In Kalari there is a precise set of physical exercises that work to achieve these attributes.

The forms of Kalari consist of Vadivu (postures) and Chuvadu (linking sequences). These are joined together to make forms. Traditionally Kalari is paractised in a 7x14m space however, it is possible to adapt almost all the forms into a much smaller area. We have done this throughout the course, to make it possible for you to train at home, whilst still teaching the forms as they were done traditionally. 

The first steps are the most important. The first postures and movements lay the groundwork for your practice and so this is where we start. Over the beginners course of 2 months, you will learn a full set of warm-up exercises (LOHAR), the first 4 leg exercises/kicks (KALUGAL), the first 5 postures (VADIVU) and 3 different forms from Northern-style Kalari to balance your body and begin to develop flow and dynamism in your movement. 

Yes of course. In some ways it can be an advantage to have no previous experience as your body is open to learn without having to unlearn anything. Saying that, experience in other MAs, dance, yoga or anything physical, will very likely make it easier for you to pick up many of the techniques. Certainly being already flexible can make starting Kalari easier but don’t worry if this isn’t you; many of our students report gaining hugely in their flexibility after just a week or two of Kalari.

Almost certainly but we cannot say 100%. If you are concerned about this, please send us an email and we can arrange a consultation. A free service to those serious about doing an Immersion course with us. Within our team we have both an Ayurvedic Doctor as well as several Physiotherapists and are able to make a solid assessment before you travel to Thailand as to what you would and wouldn’t be able to do on the course. Chances are though, you’ll be fine!

There are many ways to try to clear the mind,. To bring it into balance and focus. In Kalari we work to attain EKAGRATA (natural single-pointed focus). This is achieved through deliberate focus on the physical actions. Over time this process of repetition with complete attention , leads to a movement of the focus from the external to the internal. In this moment the mind becomes silent. It happens simultaneously and almost effortlessly. 

We have introduced the Pay-as-you-go SILVER membership to allow you to choose your own training schedule. You receive the first 6 video classes for free (3 training and 3 science); thereafter you can pay separately for individual classes or for a bundle of classes. Whatever you pay for, you will have lifetime access to and can watch as many times as needed.