Introduction
Filipino boxing (Panantukan) with Daniel Sullivan!
Filipino boxing, also known as Dirty Boxing or Panantukanis a discipline with a rich and captivating cultural heritage. I had the exceptional opportunity to take part in a week of intensive training in Borongan, a charming town in the Philippines, under the guidance of Daniel Sullivan, one of the most respected trainers in this practice.
Why did I choose this experience?
The idea of immersing myself in an authentic environment in the heart of the Philippines, while learning age-old fighting techniques, appealed to me immediately. Daniel Sullivan, with his unrivalled expertise and passion for Filipino boxing, guaranteed training that was as rewarding as it was demanding.
In this article, I'm going to share with you the highlights of this adventure: the training programme, the techniques I learnt, and the many benefits I got from it. If you're curious about Dirty Boxing or if you're thinking of having a similar experience, this story is for you.
Let's dive into the world of Dirty Boxing with Daniel Sullivan.
Why choose Filipino boxing?
Why Filipino boxing is the ideal martial art to excel in
Filipino Boxing: Much More Than Just a Fighting Sport
Filipino boxing, also known as PanantukanThe sport of karate is much more than a simple combat sport. What makes it unique is the use of all the natural weapons of the human body: head, elbows, fists, knees, shins and much more. This holistic approach offers a complete and highly effective vision of combat.
A versatile and accessible martial art
Le Dirty Boxing is not just about personal defence. It also develops essential qualities such as coordination, reactivity and increased mental discipline. Practising this discipline means learning to exploit your environment, anticipate attacks and build your self-confidence.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced boxer, Filipino boxing is suitable for all levels. Each session is an opportunity to learn new skills and perfect your existing ones.
An Authentic and Immersive Experience
For me, choosing this discipline was an obvious choice. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and explore a tradition that is still little known in Europe. Learning directly in the Philippines, in the heart of an immersive environment, promised to be an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Daniel Sullivan and the Essence of Panantukan
To better understand this fascinating martial art, here is a presentation of Filipino boxing according to Daniel Sullivan :
Who is Daniel Sullivan?
Daniel Sullivan: the expert who is redefining Dirty Boxing
If you'd like to find out who Daniel Sullivan is, here's an overview of his impressive career: See his CV
Daniel Sullivan is a leading figure in the martial arts, and more specifically in Filipino boxing. With over 20 years' experience, he has trained hundreds of boxers all over the world. His unique teaching approach, which combines technical rigour and kindness, has made him one of the most sought-after instructors.
A Remarkable Journey
Originally from the United States, Daniel began his career by quickly establishing himself as a martial arts expert. Driven by a genuine passion for Filipino culture, he has spent many years immersed in the country, learning directly from local masters. These experiences have enriched his style and forged an exceptional teaching method that respects tradition while adapting to the needs of modern practitioners.
A unique course in Borongan
Today, Daniel shares his knowledge through intensive courses in Borongan, Philippines. These immersive courses offer much more than just technical training: they allow participants to immerse themselves in the very essence of Filipino boxing, in an authentic and inspiring setting.
The Philosophy of Daniel Sullivan
As well as combat techniques, Daniel aims to pass on the fundamental values of this ancient martial art: discipline, respect and resilience. To train with him is to benefit from quality teaching, driven by a communicative passion and unrivalled precision.
👉 Joining a course with Daniel Sullivan is an enriching and memorable experience, at the crossroads of tradition and excellence.
The unique setting of Borongan
Borongan: the perfect backdrop for Filipino boxing training
Nestled on the island of Samar in the Philippines, Borongan is surrounded by heavenly beaches and lush forests. This natural setting, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, provides the perfect environment for intense, immersive training.
How do I get there?
Getting to Borongan is an adventure in itself. From Cebu, in the Central Visayas, you'll need to take an hour's flight to reach Borongan airport. But the adventure doesn't end there: Daniel Sullivan himself will pick you up at the airport, and a final hour's drive through magnificent scenery will finally take you to his home.
Between Training and Relaxation
Every day in Borongan is punctuated by demanding training sessions. However, the natural environment also offers great opportunities for relaxation. Weather permitting, you can explore the beaches and surrounding countryside.
During my stay, the sun wasn't always out, but that didn't spoil the experience. Between the delicious meals prepared by Faye, Daniel's wife, a true cordon-bleu, and the long, fascinating discussions around these meals, the time passed pleasantly.
👉 Training at Borongan is much more than just learning a martial art: it's a human and family experience in a unique setting.
A week of sweat and technique: the training programme
Day by day: what a week of Filipino Boxing (Panantukan) looks like with Daniel Sullivan
I'm not going to tell you about every day in detail, because this blog isn't just about me. What you need to know is that Daniel adapts to your level, taking into account your strengths and weaknesses. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, you're welcome here.
My programme: A balance between intensity and technicality
To give you an idea without going into too much detail, we agreed on four hours of training a day:
- Two o'clock in the morning These focus on Thai boxing and working on physical fitness (I'll come back to this in a later article).
- Two hours in the afternoon Focus on specific Filipino boxing techniques.
If you've had a look at Daniel's CV, you'll know that he's also an excellent Thai boxing instructor. When I mentioned to him that I was planning to spend two months in Thailand after this course, he decided to reinforce my Thai basics. That said, even his approach to Filipino boxing is tinged with Thai influences, which makes it very interesting and a little different from the styles I've seen elsewhere.
Global Techniques vs Fine Techniques
The specific techniques of Filipino boxing take time to master. We're talking here about fine motor skillsUnlike Thai boxing, which is based more on the use of a gross motor skills. Even if I hadn't fully mastered them, the techniques were beginning to sink in.
Intense and rewarding work
👉 It's exhausting, but so rewarding. You can feel your progress day by day... but let's remain humble, of course.
Why it's worth it
What this week has done for me (beyond the aches and pains)
Honestly, I came away from the week with more than just aches and pains and fewer litres of sweat. It was a real reset mental. Here's what I got out of it:
Physically: Endurance and explosiveness
I knew I wasn't in great shape when I arrived, and this week confirmed that I had work to do. But I hung in there! The result: better endurance, more explosiveness... even if I still need to work on my flexibility.
Mentally: Concentration and responsiveness
Spending hours anticipating your opponent's moves changes everything. Visit Dirty BoxingConcentration and responsiveness are essential, and this intensive training will help you to develop them rapidly.
Technically : Solid foundations and crucial details
I've acquired a solid foundation to continue practising at home, but what makes the difference are those little details that only someone like Daniel can teach you.
Working with shape: Back to basics
As promised, let's talk about the technical corrections. Daniel has corrected me countless times on fundamental errors:
- Lowering right fist when I threw a left hook.
- Chin not tucked in enough.
- Poorly closed fists.
- Balance and stability problems.
And the list goes on... Yes, it's frustrating. Yes, it's repetitive. But it's for your own good. If you have a modicum of common sense, you accept criticism and work on it.
The Importance of the Basics
Years of practice can give you an advantage in making rapid progress, but it can also entrench flaws. Especially if you vary the disciplines without fully mastering them. So put in the work and shut up!
That's it, then, the way accept corrections, challenge yourself and move forward.
👉 If you want to challenge yourself and learn something useful and stylish, go for it!
How can I take part in this type of course?
Want to give it a go? Here's how.
If this experience appeals to you, you should know that Daniel is very accessible and responsive on social networks. Personally, I contacted him via Facebook and Messenger, and he replied promptly.
Organisation and rates
All you have to do is talk to them to check their availability, agree prices and clarify what the course includes. For my part, I opted for the all-inclusiveand I haven't regretted it.
A Unique Family Experience
Daniel has a beautiful room with a sea view to rent. His wife, Faye, prepared all the meals for me, so I was able to spend a week with their large family. They are incredibly warm and welcoming. I'd like to thank them again for their hospitality, their smiles and the beautiful memories they gave me.
👉 If you're looking for a rewarding experience on every level - physical, mental and human - get in touch with Daniel and take the plunge.
Equipment: What you need
You don't need to be over-equipped to take part in a course with Daniel. Here are the essentials:
- Boxing gloves Indispensable for protecting your hands and practising your strokes.
- A pair of shin pads : Because you're going to be working a lot on your leg kicks, and it's better to avoid unnecessary bruising.
A word of advice before you leave
Although this course is open to everyone, I recommend that you do a bit of cardio work before you set off. A good level of fitness will enable you to take full advantage of the training sessions and get to the end without suffering too much.
👉 To sum up: If you're looking for something out of the ordinary, I'd recommend this Dirty Boxing course with Daniel Sullivan in the Philippines to 100 %.
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