Like any structure which hopes to withstand the forces of gravity and nature, it must start with a strong foundation. Students in Pambuan Arnis are expected to have a strong foundation on which to build upon. That foundation consists of history, basic exercises, footwork, striking with the single stick and its targets. These core movements are designed to teach a student muscle memory and the understanding of the eight basic principles from which all Pambuan Arnis techniques come from, such as leverage, balance and flow. Once a student possesses a good understanding of the foundation they are ready to move into anyone of the eight disciplines of Pambuan Arnis