Tim Hartman @DatuTimHartman

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The 4th World Modern Arnis Alliance Training Camp June 3–5, 2005 By the time the fourth World Modern Arnis Alliance Training Camp arrived, it was clear that something special was taking shape. What began just a few years earlier in 2002 had grown into an annual gathering that brought together martial artists from across North America, united by a shared passion for learning, friendship, and the Filipino martial arts. The 2005 camp featured an outstanding instructional staff that blended world-class martial arts with practical business education. Joining me on the teaching team were Rick Manglinong, Julie Kedzie, Matt Dorsey, and Bob Hubbard. The physical training was led by Rick Manglinong, Julie Kedzie, and myself, with sessions covering Modern Arnis, Kombatan, and Mixed Martial Arts. At the time, Julie Kedzie was one of the fastest-rising stars in MMA, and attendees had the rare opportunity to learn from someone who would soon compete at the highest levels of the sport, including the UFC. Her energy, athleticism, and technical knowledge brought an exciting new dimension to the camp. Education extended well beyond the training floor. Matt Dorsey shared valuable business strategies specifically designed for martial arts school owners, helping instructors strengthen and grow their schools. Bob Hubbard introduced attendees to the rapidly evolving world of internet marketing, search optimization, and online networking—concepts that were just beginning to reshape how martial arts schools connected with students. As in previous years, participants traveled from throughout the United States and Canada, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a family reunion than a seminar. The friendships formed on the mats were just as meaningful as the techniques being taught. The weekend also featured outstanding demonstrations from several guest instructors, showcasing arts such as Sikaran and Balintawak. One of the highlights was a performance by the youth chapter of Datu's Tribe, whose enthusiasm and dedication reflected the bright future of the organization and inspired everyone in attendance. Of course, no WMAA camp would have been complete without the fellowship that surrounded the training. Great food, plenty of laughter, unforgettable conversations, and countless hours on the mats made for another memorable weekend. It perfectly embodied what the World Modern Arnis Alliance was becoming—a community built on friendship, education, and a shared commitment to preserving and advancing the Filipino martial arts. The fourth WMAA Training Camp was another important milestone, building on the momentum that had begun in 2002 and proving that each year the organization continued to grow stronger. Looking back, it wasn't simply another seminar—it was another chapter in the story of a community that continues to thrive more than two decades later. #modernarnis #martialarts #karate

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🥋 WMAA Update: Introducing the Kandidatong Itim Belt (Black Belt Candidate) A black belt isn't earned by finishing a checklist. It's earned by demonstrating everything you've learned throughout your journey. To better reflect that philosophy, the World Modern Arnis Alliance is introducing the Kandidatong Itim Belt (Black Belt Candidate) phase. When a student completes all of the material on the black belt curriculum sheet, they have learned the required techniques, but they have not yet earned the rank of black belt. Instead, they will be awarded the gray Kandidatong Itim Belt, signifying that they are now preparing for their final examination. There is no fee for this promotion. Think of it like school. Completing your coursework doesn't mean you've graduated, it means you're ready for your final exam. This candidate phase provides time to refine technique, build confidence, improve consistency, and prepare for the comprehensive black belt examination, which evaluates everything learned throughout the system, not just the material on one curriculum sheet. We believe this change will produce stronger martial artists and even stronger black belts. Because earning a black belt isn't about completing the curriculum. It's about proving you've mastered it. #modernarnis #martialarts #filipinomartialarts #karate

Camp Throwback – April 30 to May 2, 2004 The fourth World Modern Arnis Training Camp was one I'll always remember. It had a true East Coast meets West Coast vibe, bringing together outstanding instructors from opposite sides of the country. Representing the East Coast was Dr. Jeffrey Leader, my first black belt and a lifelong friend dating back to our high school days. From the West Coast, we were honored to have Guro Rick Manglinong and Punong Guro Myrlino Hufana sharing their knowledge and experience. One of the things I always wanted these camps to accomplish was bringing together the many branches of the Filipino martial arts family. As our tradition continued to grow, students had the opportunity to experience material from different generations and lineages. With Guro Rick in attendance, everyone also got to explore teachings from the Kombatan side of the Presas family through the legacy of Grandmaster Ernesto Presas. Of course, the weekend wasn't all training. We enjoyed another great camp dinner, and everyone was treated to an outstanding Capoeira demonstration that added something special to the experience. Another highlight was watching the Datu's Tribe Demonstration Team Juniors perform alongside the Capoeira practitioners. It was exciting to see young martial artists representing Modern Arnis while sharing the spotlight with another dynamic martial art, creating a memorable cultural exchange. Every camp leaves me with a memory that stands out, and for this one it was sharing the floor with Punong Guro Myrlino Hufana. Our connection goes beyond being part of the same system. We are the only two people in Modern Arnis who were awarded the title Punong Guro by the late Grandmaster Remy A. Presas. I was the first to receive it, and he was the last. While Punong Guro is not a title exclusive to Modern Arnis, Professor Presas only bestowed it twice. The title is generally understood to mean Head Instructor, Master Teacher, or Teacher of Teachers, making it a very meaningful part of our shared history. Looking back, what makes these camps so special isn't just the techniques—it is seeing first-generation students training alongside the next generations, exchanging ideas, preserving the art, and building friendships that continue decades later. Here are a few photos from that memorable weekend. If you attended and have more pictures tucked away, I'd love to see them. I'm always trying to expand my historical archive and preserve the story of our art. Were you at this camp? What do you remember most? I'd love to hear your memories in the comments. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman Modern Arnis' Tribal Chief #TBT #ModernArnis #WorldModernArnisAlliance #WMAA #FilipinoMartialArts #FMA #RemyPresas #ErnestoPresas #Kombatan #MartialArtsHistory #ThrowbackThursday #TrainingCamp #MartialArtsCommunity

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⏳ Just One Week to Go! The countdown is on! In just one week, martial artists from across the region will gather for the Second Balintawak Immersion Camp at Horizon Martial Arts. This is your opportunity to train with Master Rich Parsons and Datu Tim Hartman as they take you on a deep dive into the fighting concepts, timing, strategy, and legacy of the legendary Grandmaster Anciong Bacon's Balintawak system. Whether you're joining us for the full three-day immersion or the Saturday seminar, you'll experience hands-on instruction that will challenge your skills and expand your understanding of Filipino Martial Arts. 🔥 July 17–19, 2026 📍 Horizon Martial Arts 280 Center Road West Seneca, NY Seats are limited, and there's still time to claim yours—but not for long. Don't miss this incredible weekend of training. Register today and join us on the training floor! 👉 Register here: sparkpages.io/?i=_9mEb

Throwback Thursday: 2003 WMAA Training Camp Looking back at 2003 brings back a lot of great memories. That year, I hosted the second World Modern Arnis Alliance Training Camp, and after the success of our first camp, it was clear this was a tradition worth continuing. As many of you know, I've always believed in thinking beyond the boundaries of a single system. My goal wasn't just to promote Modern Arnis—it was to help promote Filipino martial arts as a whole while building stronger connections throughout the martial arts community. I've always believed that a rising tide lifts all ships. That year's outstanding instructor lineup included: • Grandmaster Maung Gyi • Grandmaster Bong Jornales • The late Guro Dan Carr • Dr. Jeff Leader • Guro Chad Dulin • Guro A. Paul Dawdy • Guro Jack Latorre • And myself, Datu Tim Hartman The camp brought together multiple Filipino martial arts systems, along with Bando from Burma, giving everyone the opportunity to experience different methods, philosophies, and teaching styles. One of the lessons I've learned over the years is that many systems often share similar concepts. The real value isn't always what is being taught—it's how it's being taught. Seeing familiar ideas through another instructor's perspective is one of the best ways to deepen your understanding. That's why I've always enjoyed inviting instructors from other systems. It broadens everyone's horizons and helps us better understand where our own art fits within the larger martial arts world. We had a fantastic weekend, and the success of that camp gave us the momentum to keep the WMAA Training Camp tradition alive for years to come. I'd love to see some photos from that weekend. If you attended and still have pictures tucked away in an old photo album or on a hard drive, please share them in the comments. It would be great to relive those memories together and preserve a small piece of our shared history. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman The Tribal Chief # TBT #ThrowbackThursday #ModernArnis #WorldModernArnisAlliance #FilipinoMartialArts #FMA #Arnis #Eskrima #Kali #Bando #MartialArts #MartialArtsHistory #TrainingCamp #Leadership #LifelongLearning #TribalChief

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⏳ Only 10 days to go! The countdown is on for the Balintawak Immersion Camp at Horizon Martial Arts, headquarters of the World Modern Arnis Alliance. Join Datu Tim Hartman and Master Rich Parsons for an in-depth journey into the art of Balintawak Eskrima. Whether you're looking to sharpen your fundamentals or elevate your understanding of the system, this is a rare opportunity to learn directly from two of the world's most respected Filipino martial arts instructors. Over the course of the camp, you'll explore: 🥋 Grouped Training 🥋 Ungrouped Training 🥋 The Hybrid Semi-Grouped Method This isn't just another seminar—it's a true immersion designed to deepen your skill, timing, sensitivity, and understanding of one of the most effective close-quarter fighting systems ever developed. Train. Learn. Grow. Connect with fellow practitioners who share your passion for Filipino martial arts. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience. 👉 Follow the link for full details and registration. sparkpages.io/?i=_9mEb

Every Fourth of July, Americans have a chance to pause and reflect on the sacrifices that gave birth to this nation. Two hundred and fifty years ago, our forefathers faced overwhelming odds. They stood against oppression, risked everything for an idea they believed in, and secured the independence that generations of Americans have benefited from ever since. As someone who has traveled extensively around the world, I never take that for granted. I've seen incredible beauty. I've also seen heartbreaking poverty. I've watched families living in conditions that most Americans can't even imagine. Those experiences have given me a deep appreciation for what we often overlook here at home—our freedoms, our opportunities, our standard of living, and the simple ability to pursue our dreams. No country is perfect, but I know how fortunate I am to call America home. For that, I am grateful. Yesterday was a day to celebrate. Today, though, I want to acknowledge why the Fourth of July will always carry a bittersweet meaning for me. On July 4, 2013, the Filipino martial arts community lost one of its true legends—Grandmaster Ted Buot. GM Ted Buot was a direct student of the founder of Balintawak, Grandmaster Venancio "Anciong" Bacon. He belonged to a very small group of men trusted to teach in Anciong Bacon's absence—an honor few will ever understand the significance of. He was named as the successor to the system, but like many great Filipino martial artists of his generation, he couldn't make a living teaching in the Philippines. To provide for his family, he came to the United States, where he quietly continued passing on the art exactly as Grandmaster Bacon had taught him—one student at a time. I have been incredibly fortunate throughout my martial arts journey to learn from some of the greatest practitioners in the world. Doors have opened for me because of remarkable people, and one of the most important was opened by my teacher, Professor Remy Presas, who introduced me to Ted Buot. That introduction changed my life. Training with Ted wasn't simply about learning techniques. It transformed how I understood timing, strategy, efficiency, and execution. More importantly, it showed me the kind of man I wanted to become. His humility, patience, quiet confidence, and generosity left a mark on me that reaches far beyond martial arts. There are teachers who give you information. Then there are teachers who change the direction of your life. Ted Buot was one of those rare individuals. I miss you, sir. I'm in no hurry, but someday we'll meet again. Until then, I'll do my best to honor what you shared with me by passing it on to the next generation. Happy Independence Day, everyone. Cherish your freedoms. Remember those who came before us. And never forget the teachers who shaped the people we've become. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman The Tribal Chief

On behalf of the World Modern Arnis Alliance, I would like to wish all of our friends across the United States a very Happy Independence Day. As we celebrate the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy, let us also remember those who have sacrificed to make them possible. To our WMAA family and friends around the world, thank you for being part of our global martial arts community. While you may not be celebrating the Fourth of July, I hope you and your loved ones have a safe, peaceful, and blessed weekend. With respect, Datu Tim Hartman Modern Arnis' Tribal Chief

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In 2002, I had the honor of hosting the very first World Modern Arnis Alliance Training Camp. Looking back today, it's amazing to realize that one weekend became the beginning of a tradition that has continued to flourish for more than two decades. I was fortunate to share the teaching responsibilities with an incredible group of instructors: Dr. Maung Gyi, Guro Rick Manglinong, Guro Jay Spiro, Guro Tom Macaluso, and myself. Together, we brought students a weekend filled with Modern Arnis, Kombatan, Bando, and Jeet Kune Do, but the camp became so much more than a series of training sessions. What made that first gathering unforgettable was the people. Martial artists traveled from New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, Canada, and even Gresham, Oregon, with Dan Anderson making the long journey to be part of it. The classes were exceptional, but what has stayed with me all these years are the moments between them, the conversations, the laughter, the banquet, the awards ceremony, and the friendships that began on those training mats. Without any of us realizing it at the time, that weekend laid the foundation for what would become the World Modern Arnis Alliance. It wasn't built by one instructor or one event. It was built by people who believed in each other and in a shared vision for the future. To everyone who has attended a camp, taught a class, trained beside us, volunteered behind the scenes, or supported the Alliance over the years, thank you. Your dedication, loyalty, and friendship have helped shape something that continues to grow stronger with every passing year. That support is something I will never take for granted. Over the next several days, I'll be sharing more memories from those early camps and the many milestones that followed. I hope you'll enjoy taking this walk down memory lane with me and celebrating the people who helped make this journey so special. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman The Tribal Chief

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🎄 CHRISTMAS IN JULY VIRTUAL TRAINING SALE! 🎄 Train with Datu Tim Hartman from anywhere in the world and take advantage of one of the biggest training specials of the year! For a limited time, we're offering special Virtual Training Class Packages with an incredible 25% savings compared to our regular rates. Whether you're looking to sharpen your Modern Arnis skills, improve your technique, or receive personalized instruction from one of the world's leading instructors, this is the perfect opportunity to invest in your training. Choose the package that fits your goals: ✅ 13 Virtual Classes for $200 💰 Save $125 ✅ 25 Virtual Classes for $375 💰 Save $250 ✅ 65 Virtual Classes for $900 💰 Save $725 These class packages provide flexible scheduling, exceptional value, and the opportunity to train directly with Datu Tim Hartman no matter where you live. 📅 Sale runs from July 13th through July 31st—or until all packages are sold. ⚠️ Only 15 packages are available. Once they're gone, they're gone. More training. More savings. More value. Don't miss this chance to accelerate your progress, strengthen your skills, and finish the year stronger than ever. Merry Christmas in July, and we'll see you online! — Datu Tim Hartman Link Here: sparkpages.io/?i=_PQFb

I'm excited to officially announce that CON-TRACK is now part of the Buffalo Niagara Martial Con experience this November! CON-TRACK is a cutting-edge event app designed to help you make the most of your weekend. With just a few taps, you'll have access to schedules, seminar times, room locations, guest information, vendor listings, event updates, maps, and so much more—all right from your phone. Best of all, it's completely FREE for everyone attending the event. Getting started is easy: 📲 Download the CON-TRACK app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. 🔍 Search for Buffalo Niagara Martial Con. ✅ Stay up to date with everything happening before and throughout the event. Simply scan the QR code below to download the app and be ready for an even better Martial Con experience. This is another step forward in making Buffalo Niagara Martial Con bigger, better, and more connected than ever before. I can't wait to see you all this November! Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman The Tribal Chief #westseneca #martialcon #labanlaro #martialarts #comiccon

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One Decision: Reflections on 40 Years as a Modern Arnis Instructor It's funny how one decision can change your life. Most of the time, we don't realize it when it's happening. We think we're making a small choice, trying something new, or simply satisfying our curiosity. We don't see the chain reaction that's about to begin. We don't see the people we'll meet, the places we'll go, or the lessons we'll learn because of that single moment. We only see it when we look back. For me, that decision happened when I walked into the Filipino Karate Academy. I remember thinking, "Well, this ought to be interesting." That was it. There was no grand plan. No vision of the future. No expectation that martial arts would become such a significant part of my life. I was simply curious. But that one decision opened a door. A short time later, I tested for my yellow belt. Then someone suggested I attend the Summer Camp in Mississippi in 1986. At the time, it sounded like another opportunity to learn something new and spend time with people who shared a common interest. What I didn't know was that I was taking another step through a doorway that would shape the next four decades of my life. One door led to another. One experience created another opportunity. One friendship introduced me to countless others. And before I knew it, I wasn't just studying Modern Arnis—I was living a life that had been transformed by it. Today marks forty years since I became a certified instructor in Modern Arnis. Forty years. Even writing those words feels strange. The 21-year-old version of me would never have believed it. I loved martial arts then, but I never imagined where the journey would lead. I never imagined traveling around the world. I never imagined meeting so many incredible people. I never imagined gaining lifelong friends, mentors, students, and what I consider extended family. Yet all of that can be traced back to a single decision. Looking back, it's easy to focus on milestones—the promotions, the seminars, the camps, the accomplishments, and the challenges. But the older I get, the more I realize that the greatest gift has been the journey itself. The adventures. The friendships. The lessons. The memories. The opportunity to be part of something larger than myself. Of course, not every part of the journey was easy. There were mistakes. There were disappointments. There were times when things didn't go as planned. But I wouldn't erase any of it. Not because every experience was enjoyable, but because every experience taught me something. The mistakes taught me lessons. The challenges built resilience. The setbacks provided perspective. The successes created opportunities to help others. Every chapter, good or bad, contributed to the person I am today. And when I look at it that way, even the difficult moments become something to appreciate. As I reflect on this anniversary, I find myself feeling grateful. Grateful for my teachers who shared their knowledge and trusted me with their art. Grateful for my students who challenged me to become a better instructor. Grateful for my family and friends who have supported me throughout this journey. Grateful for every person I've met along the way. And perhaps most of all, grateful that I walked through that door all those years ago. It's amazing how often we fail to recognize the importance of a moment while we're living it. Sometimes it takes years. Sometimes it takes decades. Only then do we realize that a seemingly small decision changed everything that followed. Forty years later, I can honestly say that walking into that school was one of the best decisions I ever made. One decision. One open door. A lifetime of adventure, friendship, growth, and purpose. As for what's next? I'm looking forward to finding out. Maybe another 40 years. Who knows? Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman Modern Arnis Tribal Chief #ModernArnis #FilipinoMartialArts #MartialArtsJourney #40Years #ModernArnisLife #OneDecision #Legacy #MartialArtsCommunity #DatuTimHartman

I am truly humbled and honored to be recognized in *Grandmaster of Martial Arts Magazine*. To be included among 21 outstanding martial artists from around the world is something I never take for granted. This recognition is not just about me—it reflects the many instructors, students, friends, and supporters who have been part of my journey over the years. Your encouragement, trust, and dedication have helped make this possible. Thank you to the staff of *Grandmaster of Martial Arts Magazine* for this incredible honor, and congratulations to all of the other honorees being recognized alongside me. If you'd like to learn more about the magazine and see the feature, please follow the link below. Thank you all for your continued support. It means more than words can express. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman Modern Arnis Tribal Chief l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%…

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A friend recently asked me an interesting question: Can you become a great martial artist without ever competing? My answer is yes—but not necessarily for everyone. Competition is not the only path to becoming a great martial artist. However, what competition does provide is something incredibly important: a non-compliant opponent. Someone who is actively trying to stop you, defeat you, or impose their will on you. So perhaps the better question is this: Can you become a great martial artist without ever training against resistance? On that point, I would disagree. Many phenomenal martial artists never became tournament champions, but they still developed their skills against resisting opponents. They sparred. They fought in the ring. They tested themselves under pressure. Some even fought for their lives in real-world situations. The common denominator wasn't competition itself—it was resistance. Take my teacher, the late Grandmaster Remy Presas. He was a world-renowned martial artist and a living legend. Yet much of his experience came from fighting in the streets of the Philippines with real weapons, no protective gear, and opponents who were genuinely trying to hurt him. That's as non-compliant as it gets. Now, is that different from a tournament match? Absolutely. The level of violence is different. The consequences are different. But at its core, both experiences involve dealing with an opponent who is resisting and forcing you to apply your skills under pressure. That's why I don't believe you must enter tournaments to become a great martial artist. I do believe, however, that you need training methods that realistically simulate combat. Resistance training, sparring, pressure testing, and realistic drills are all essential elements. Competition is one way to achieve that, but it isn't the only way. Look at military personnel. Many of them never step into a tournament ring, yet they embody the essence of martial skill. Martial arts literally means "the arts of war." These men and women train extensively, deploy into dangerous environments, and gain real-world experience under conditions most people can barely imagine. Their path may not focus on trophies, medals, or even the philosophical aspects of martial arts, but when it comes to the art of combat, they possess a level of experience that commands respect. The same can be said for many instructors from previous generations. Whether their experience came from the streets, the ring, military service, law enforcement, or intensive sparring, they developed their abilities by testing themselves against resistance. Ultimately, the real question isn't whether someone competes. The real question is what makes a great martial artist. Technical skill matters. Knowledge matters. Character matters. Teaching ability matters. But the ability to apply your skills against resistance—whether in competition, sparring, real-world encounters, or other forms of pressure testing—is a critical piece of the puzzle. That's my opinion. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman Modern Arnis Tribal Chief #ModernArnis #FilipinoMartialArts #FMA #MartialArts #DatuTimHartman #CombatSports #SelfDefense #PressureTesting #Sparring #MartialArtsTraining #WarriorMindset #Arnis #Eskrima #Kali #MartialArtsLife

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I originally wrote this as a response to someone's post, but after thinking about it, I felt it was worth sharing with everyone. The question was simple: What’s the Biggest Problem in Martial Arts Today? The answer isn't simple at all. That's a dangerous question because the list is long—far longer than most people want to admit. We could talk about the growing desire for instant gratification. People want black belts, titles, recognition, and authority without paying the price that generations before them willingly paid. They want the destination without the journey. We could talk about individuals who have only been training for ten or twenty years but already see themselves as founders, grandmasters, or heads of systems. Instead of becoming a valuable part of something larger than themselves, they become consumed with the need to be the center of attention. They don't want to be *a* leader. They want to be *the* leader. And when that opportunity isn't handed to them, they simply create their own system so they can sit at the top. We could talk about ego. In fact, we probably should. Martial arts was once about humility, discipline, and self-discovery. Today, too often, it's about followers, views, likes, and personal branding. The art becomes secondary to the artist. The mission becomes secondary to the spotlight. We could also talk about training itself. Years ago, many schools were criticized for being too extreme. The old "dungeon dojo" mentality pushed people beyond reasonable limits. But now we've swung so far in the opposite direction that discomfort itself has become controversial. Someone gets a bruise, a sore muscle, or experiences the reality of physical training, and suddenly people act as though a crime has been committed. The pendulum didn't stop in the middle. It flew past it. Then came COVID. In my opinion, COVID didn't just change society—it accelerated many of its existing weaknesses. It isolated people, altered how we interact, and damaged many of the social skills that once helped communities function. Add social media to the equation, and now everyone has a platform, whether they have wisdom to share or not. The problem is that social media rewards attention, not necessarily knowledge. It rewards outrage, not necessarily truth. It rewards appearance, not necessarily substance. As a result, behaviors that would have once been considered unacceptable are now celebrated. Poor examples become role models. Loud voices become authorities. Perception becomes reality. And martial arts is not immune to any of it. The truth is, we can debate rankings, politics, training methods, certifications, social media, lineage, commercialization, and a hundred other topics. Each deserves its own article. But if I had to simplify the biggest problem in martial arts today into a single word, it would be this: **People.** People create the systems. People create the conflicts. People create the solutions. And ultimately, people determine whether martial arts remains a vehicle for personal growth or becomes just another stage for ego and self-promotion. I could write pages on this subject, but for now, I'll leave it there. Just my two cents. Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman Modern Arnis Tribal Chief