Pencak Silat Pencak Silat Pencak silat (; in Western writings sometimes spelled "pentjak silat" or phonetically as "penchak silat") is an umbrella term for a class of related Indonesian martial arts. In neighbouring countries the term usually refers to professional competitive silat. It is a full-body fighting form incorporating strikes, grappling and throwing in addition to weaponry. Every part of the body is used and subject to attack. Pencak silat was practiced not only for physical defense but also for psychological ends. The leading organization of pencak silat in Indonesia is "Ikatan Pencak Silat Indonesia" (Pencak Silat Association of Indonesia). The liaison
Pencak Silat to another during a fight. Pencak silat has several basic steps, known as "langkah 8 penjuru" or "eight directions of steps". Traditional music is often used as a signal to change body position when practicing langkah. Langkah are taught in conjunction with preset stances, meant to provide a foundation from which to defend oneself or to launch attacks. The most basic stance is the horse stance ("kekuda" or "kuda-kuda"), which provides stability and firm body position by strengthening the quads. Other stances may train the feet, legs, thighs, glutes and back. Other essential stances are the middle stance, the side