Pencak silat is a martial art developed in Indonesia and comprised of a variety of fighting techniques, both armed and unarmed. In competition, pencak silat practitioners display their skills by participating in any of four categories. One of these categories allows competitors to test their abilities against one another, while the other three reward displays of proficiency with pencak silat techniques.
Tanding
In a Tanding match, competitors attempt to score points by hitting the opponent on the torso or knocking him to the floor while parrying or evading oncoming attacks. Each contestant must use pencak silat forms and techniques and may only use certain step patterns, known collectively as “pola langkah,” to approach and retreat from the opponent. Successful hand attacks award one point, while kicks award two points; knocking the opponent to the floor awards three points. A counterattack that originates from a parry or evasion is awarded an additional point. Should a competitor render an opponent unable to fight after a ten-count, he is automatically awarded the victory.
Tunggal
Tunggal practitioners perform routines designed to display a mastery of both unarmed and weapon forms of pencak silat. The weapons used include a dulled version of the machete-like “golok” or “parang,” and a rattan rod known as the “tongkat.” Prior to a routine, the weapons are placed in a stand located on one end of the performance area. Competitors perform a three-minute routine that begins with a display of barehanded techniques and proceeds to the weapon forms. A panel of judges awards each performer a score based on the accuracy and firmness of the movements.
Ganda
Ganda is similar to Tunggal in that competitors attempt to perform a routine that will demonstrate proficiency with different armed and unarmed fighting techniques. However, it differs in that each routine features two performers who engage in a form of mock duel; one person performs a series of offensive moves while the other defends. Ganda practitioners are allowed to use the same weapons as Tunggal practitioners, as well as a dagger known as the “keris” and a three-pronged weapon called the “trisula.” During the routine, only one performer is allowed to wield a weapon as a time; the other must perform unarmed. As with Tunggal, judges score each performance based on accuracy and firmness; there is also a third category of “soulfulness,” which refers to the harmony of the simultaneous movements of both performers.
Regu
In a Regu performance, three teammates perform a three-minute routine consisting of synchronized silat movements. Unlike Tunggal and Ganda, performers are not allowed the use of weapons in a routine. However, the scoring criteria are similar, with extra consideration paid to the accuracy of the movements. If a performer misses a movement or acts out-of-turn, it will result in a point deduction.
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