Baguhan – Novice – ‘C-shape’
Baguhan is an essential foundation technique from the double weapon methods and is probably one of the most versatile in application. The name baguhan means novice, which conveys the simplicity of the C-shaped motion, typical of the type of movement performed by a beginner to the Filipino martial arts. Baguhan is a very fluid, twin-striking method that develops the ability to quickly change offensive tactics from high to low targets and from a defensive block or parry to an immediate counter strike. This very effective fundamental technique develops further into the intermediate and explosive technique of bulalakaw (comet).
Structure and mechanics
Utilising the same weapon, baguhan consists of two horizontal parallel strikes at different heights. Beginning in the abierta (open) position, the first strike of baguhan travels horizontally at head height to the serrada (closed) side. The second strike starts from the serrada position and moves towards the abierta side in a horizontal motion at knee height. In structure, the first strike leads with the second knuckles in a blade orientation and with the palm facing vertically upwards. The second strike similarly uses the blade orientation of leading with the second knuckles and has the palm facing vertically downwards. If commencing baguhan with the right stick, power is generated in the first strike by twisting the hips sharply to the left. Similarly, the second strike utilises a hip twist to the right to create power in the low backhand strike.
Methods of development
The baguhan technique is capable of generating considerable speed and power during execution and this can be developed by making use of both solo and partner-based supportive training methods. An effective solo training method of developing speed and impact power in executing baguhan is to strike the large diameter rope. The first strike is performed palm-up and strikes the rope at head height, making full use of body mechanics to generate impact power. The motion travels horizontally from a high abierta origin to a high serrada finish. The second palm-down strike travels from a low serrada position towards a low abierta completion, also making full use of body mechanics to create impact power. Both strikes should lead with the middle knuckles to ensure that the stability of the technique is maintained.
