Rhythmic steps in the Kalari

Kalaripayattu is the martial art of Kerala, India. Training of this martial art focuses co-ordination of mind and body.

A system of scientifically arranged and well graded series of exercises for achieving maximum physical agility has been formulated by the ancient masters of Kalaripayattu.

The series of these physical training exercises is known as Meypayattu. (mey means body and payattu, the exercise). There are separate exercises for legs and the rest of the body.

Twelve kinds of exercises are there for legs. Leaps and jumps are other important exercises.

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

This video of three artistes performing various exercises is taken from CVN Kalari, Thiruvananthapuram. This is a premier centre of training for this martial art.