"I have been  learning the Kruzada system under Sensei Errol Ballesteros for just about six months. The system lends itself to so many practical uses with it's combinations of stick work, empty hand, grappling and locks. Not a Better martial arts system out there with so many practical applications for self-defense.

Classes are challenging with a good mix of drills, techniques and sparring. Having come into this class with no formal training in martial arts, I was concerned about getting up to speed  but these classes and this system lends itself to quick learning and focused improvement.  I'd recommend this class to both newcomers to martial arts as well as seasoned veterans looking for a challenge."

- David Bennet

"Kuntaw Kali Kruzada is a comprehensive and extremely pragmatic system of self-defense.  In contrast to many martial arts systems that only provide weapons training to advance belts, Kuntaw Kali Kruzada operates under the assumption that efficient self-defense, both in terms of training time and situational realities, should begin with learning to handle a weapon that could be improvised in most environments.

Kuntaw Kali Kruzada also emphasizes unarmed self-defense that eschews impractical techniques such as high flashy kicks, and instead focuses on efficient strikes, blocks, and joint locks, while taking into account both the range of the attack and anatomical vulnerability of the target area.

I have been extremely fortunate to be studying with Datu Rich Acosta on a number of counts.  He demonstrates a dedication to both the art itself and his students, as evidenced by his enthusiasm and patience in sharing his knowledge.   Old school  martial artists set a standard for honorable and dignified behavior, and Datu follows this model.  I look forward to continuing to train with him and the Kuntaw Kali Kruzada  family."

- David N. Lipton, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist

"I am fortunate to be training in the Kuntaw Kali Kruzada system under Maestro Rico and Datu Rich Acosta. The Kuntaw Kali Kruzada system made me understand what traditional Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) are all about.

Not only do Maestro Rico and Datu Rich Acosta teach us tradition. They also train us for real life situations. Mass attacks, one on one, bar fights, etc.

Datu’s class caters to a wide variety of students. There are students with extensive martial arts back grounds and some students with out any experience in the martial arts. I’ve trained in many different martial arts, including wrestling, and I have been in many street altercations, but  Maestro Rico and Datu Rich always surprise me with how and what they teach!" 

- Guro Errol Ballesteros