Silat Dance & Fighting Applications

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**Available via online streaming only**

  • 36 videos
  • 2 hours 15 minutes of instruction
  • Step by step explanation of each movement
  • Demonstrates the combative application of the movements
  • Includes Bonus video of Burton performing the dance at the Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia
  • Certification option in the works

To access the online programs you purchased, go to: https://jkdunlimited.com/apps/downloads/orders/

     Black Belt Magazine hall of Famer Burton Richardson is well known in the martial arts world for his emphasis on teaching hard-core, pressure tested, functional fighting methods. So it may come as a surprise to many that Richardson spends time each week practicing the graceful, fluid, dance styles of Southeast Asia, often referred to as Silat Dance. It is not so surprising once you understand the combat applications that are hidden within the dance.

     Silat Dance is a particular style of movement which blossomed across South-East Asia in the 7th century AD and remains a resplendent cultural treasure to this day. When you see it, you know it. Its fluidity, grace, and beauty are a sight to behold. But these are not just dances. Hidden within the motions are extremely effective and devastating martial arts applications.

     Few martial artists know that Richardson learned Southeast Asian dances before he ever trained in the martial arts. Born and raised in the ethically diverse Carson, California, Burton, along with his fellow elementary school students, learned Filipino, and Samoan dances along with American cultural dances. When he was older, he learned and performed Filipino dances with local Filipino dance troops, including UCLA’s fabulous Samahang Pilipino organization.

     As he progressed in his martial arts training, especially in the Filipino, Indonesian, Malaysian, and Thai martial arts, he became more fascinated with the dance since it was an important part of the the Southeast Asian combative arts. It was fascinating to Richardson that the Filipinos hid their martial art, which had been outlawed by the conquering Spanish forces, within the cultural dances so they could practice in the open.

     After many decades studying, enjoying, and teaching the South-East Asian Dance, Burton decided to create this program so others could enjoy their many benefits. It’s interesting to note that many people know of the health benefits of Tai Chi, but the Southeast Asian martial arts offer the same benefits in an arguably more interesting package. A big plus is that the combative applications are still known and practiced.

     Teaching seminars worldwide, Burton noticed that many times the most hard-core fighters would come up to him after a session and tell him that they particularly appreciated when he taught a few minutes of the dance and then showed the hidden application of it.

     In this program, Burton teaches a beautiful, varied dance that is a combination of elements from various Southeast Asian arts that he has studied. From Northern Thailand to the southern Philippines and everywhere in between, Burton shares the dance movements step-by-step, and also demonstrates the combative application of each movement. Knowing the application gives you a concrete idea of how the move functions and therefore how it is supposed to look. As the Southeast Asian martial arts saying goes, if you know the roots, you can better understand and appreciate the blossoming flowers.

     If you want to enjoy a low impact, stress reducing martial arts exercise that is fun and mentally stimulating, give Silat Dance try. You don’t have to be older to enjoy these dances, but it is especially helpful for those who have been on this earth a little longer. It’s a great way to put yourself in the moment and focus on the here and now while you improve your body movements and martial skills.

     Let us know if you have any questions at all. We are here to help!

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