The place of martial art training is known as 'Kalari'and the practice 
             of this martial art is 'Payattu'.The Kalari traditionally serves the 
             functions of both a training centre and a temple.      

VARIOUS STAGES OF KALARIPPAYATU TRAINING

• Meithari

Kalarippayattu originates not in aggression but is in the disciplining of the self. Therefore the training begins with disciplining the physical body and attaining a mental balance. This is crucial for any person and not necessarily a martial aspirant. This first stage of training consists of physical exercises to develop strength, flexibility, balance and stamina. It includes jumps, low stances on the floor, circular sequences, kicks etc. An attempt is made to understand and master each separate organ of the body. These exercises bring an alertness to the mind, and this alertness helps one understand some of the movements and processes of the self defence sequences that are taught at later stages.

• Angathari
  
  If the student masters the first two stages of training, one need not continue the learning of the art as the first two stages moulds the personality and enables one to face situations in life better. The first two stages in that point of view becomes a necessity to all. Further training is provided to those students who aspires to learn the martial aspect. Here the metal weapon training is introduced.

• Kolthari
  
  This is the second level of training wherein the wooden weapons are introduced. One may wonder in this age of fast growing technology does such practices help? The purpose of weapons training is to remove fear - training allows one to "see", and not run away. It is believed that all forms of fear can be reduced to two basic types - visual and aural. The correct weapon training helps to develop dristhi sthirata - seeing clearly with stability - which prevents the mind from panicking, thus allowing one to calmly assess the situation and take appropriate action. The weapon wielding techniques may not be applied directly but it plays a major role in building confidence, alertness and balance of the body. An alert person is free from stress and anxiety.

• Verumkai

The bare hand techniques of locking, gripping, throwing and further blocking, striking and kicking techniques are taught. This part of the study includes the knowing of the vital points or the nerve centre striking. This is said to be the advanced stage and a Kalari Gurukkal (the title given to the Preceptor of Kalarippayattu) of the Martial traditional order will impart this knowledge only to those students who are highly disciplined not only in Kalari but leads such a life. The student also learns the Marma Chikilsa as part of Kalari's advanced study. It is a method of treatment to cure the defects affected on the marmas (vital points) of the human body. Since ancient times, Ayurveda has had different categories and traditions in Kerala. Kalari Marma Chikilsa is one such unique tradition. A Kalari Gurukkal can detect the damaged marmas that could be the result of some injury in the past. Damages to marmas lead to illness, chronic conditions or emotional insecurity for which the Gurukkal has the treatment.