Kerala has long been known for its various forms of martial arts and sports. The age old martial arts training centers used to be almost like a Gurukul where the students went in at a very young age when the body is still supple. The child-disciple is then given complete training. Not only are exercises and physical fitness emphasized on, rigorous martial arts training is undergone for many years. The Guru or the preceptor trains the student in many subjects including Ayurveda, the science of herbal healing and Yoga to awaken the mental or psychic powers. These are considered integral parts of martial training in Kerala as a person needs to effectively heal himself in an ailment before he can prepare for sports and combat. A through knowledge of physiology helped in fruitful combat and prepared the disciple in strong offensive tactics. Knowledge of the nerves and joints and various body organs helped in preparing a proper defense. A profound philosophical, usually religious doctrine is ingrained. This gives the mind direction and focus. Special martial arts training were provided to the royal militarily guards and the religious warriors. Thus martial arts training was a complete study in its own and took many years for a person to perfect. Some of the commonly practiced Kerala martial arts and sports are-
- Aattakalasham
- Ammanattam
- Anthakshari
- Chathurangam
- Golikali
- Kalapootu
- Kalarippayattu
- Kalavayal
- Kalayottam
- Kankettu
- Kavadikali
- Kilithattukali
- Kilukkikuthu
- Kozhipporu
- Kumbala
- Kuttiyumkolum
- Kuzhipanthukali
- Maramadi
- Nadanpanthukali
- Onathallu
- Pakidakali
- Pallaankuzhi
- Pambaramkali
- Thaduthuthallu
- Thalapanthukali
- Thongikali
- Thumbithullal
- Uriyadi
- Vadipayattu
- Vallamkali
- Vattukali
Use of arms and implements such as knife, bow and arrow, sword, stick etc. were taught to the disciple besides freehand combat. Martial arts display formed a common performance in temple festivals and other important occasions. Some sports such as Njaninmel Kali (tightrope walking) were also much favored. It is this expertise in the field of martial arts and sports that has paved the way for training in circus acts. The Kannur and Thalassery areas of north Kerala are renowned for such well trained circuses and the entire state is known as the "home of the circus in India".
