I must premise the following by noting that there are many methods of FMA. Therefore the particular style that I will compare is one inherited through Punong Guro Narrie Babao’s Batangas style - Arnis de Mano. It includes empty hand as well as weapons. Both use concepts and principals as their premise. In addition, it has the added interpretation of Cepeda-Abueg Martial Arts featuring Kenpo Karate.

The handwork in Arnis de Mano uses combinations as a boxer would. The arms are alternatively extended and returned quickly so that one maintains a protective limb for cover. The strikes extend from the front of the body. When weapons are used, much emphasis is placed on the wrist to deliver the strikes in rapid fashion. Another similarity is a boxer does not rely on one knock out punch, but rather a series of combinations, which may introduce an opportunity for the knockout. Also, you are required to be adept at being a "south paw" since it is a position you often find yourself in. Although foot movement is constant, strikes are made when the feet are temporarily planted.

Body position is similar in that you are never squared to your opponent. You offer either shoulder in a somewhat crouched position. The body is used to provide power and torque to strikes.

Rhythm is another common denominator. In boxing, it is developed through the jump rope drills, speed bag or the focus mitts. In Arnis de Mano it is developed with "rolling" drills where you and a partner exchange strikes and blocks in controlled patterns of rhythm. Another tool used to develop rhythm is percussion instruments such as drums. Drumming provides a beat to help with timing, relaxation and endurance.

Finally, a particular and important similarity often overlooked is footwork. A boxer without footwork is only half a boxer, one professional boxing trainer told me.

Unlike many hard styles, there are no set stances in Arnis de Mano. You are always in transition. Therefore, like a boxer, you are shuffling, gliding and slipping - moving. And like a boxer (as opposed to a puncher) you are taking angles in your footwork, never giving your opponent a set target. And as seen in the classic boxer’s hook, you pivot on your footwork. In Arnis de Mano, it is critical to pivot as you move and strike.

While there are other similarities to boxing, these are the most central to Arnis de Mano. Boxing is a moving art as is the FMA. These arts come alive as Master Brian Adams, a student of Ed Parker, emphasized to me.