Learning Bokator (Cambodian Ancient Martial Art)

Labokator (meaning fight with a lion) is most commonly known as Bokator. It is an ancient Khmer or Cambodian martial art which was used on the battlefield by the old Khmer kings and warriors. It is thought that the superior skill of these warriors using this close quarter combat system allowed the Khmer Empire to dominate South East Asia for over 800 years.

Carvings of Bokator have been recorded and can still be seen on some of the temples of Angkor Wat. This art form was lost for centuries with only a few teachers and students practising this traditional martial art. Bokator teachers and students were targeted and killed by the Khmer Rouge along with other traditional arts such as dance, music and singing and later the Vietnamese leaders also banned the practice of Bokator.

This course will demonstrate and explain Bokator moves, some history of the art form as-well as self defence moves. Bokatar uses close combat techniques including Elbows, Knees, joint work (locks), ground work and weapons/weapon defence such as knives, staffs, swords, spears etc. Bokator was almost lost during the civil war where all but one of the Grandmasters of this ancient artform were killed.

Using my knowledge as a Black Khrama (belt) i want to share this ancient martial art and the history of it to others.