Kalaripayattu is literally translated to mean "martial training inside the gymnasium." It is a martial art that combines self-defense techniques, religion and elements of Capoeira, a martial arts dance.

Kalaripayattu leads to the ultimate coordination of the mind and the body. When using swords, practitioners feel the sword is an extension of their body, and they control it with their mind as they would a limb.

Kalaripayattu users attain a high level of perfection in both attacking opponents and defending themselves from opponents. Hand-to-hand combat is taught in this form of martial art, but it is generally taught last. Use of weapons is generally taught first, which is why Kalaripayattu practitioners generally become adept in the usage of weapons.

One aspect of Kalaripayattu that sets it apart from other forms of martial arts is that practitioners are taught to heal as well as inflict damage. Once martial arts training is complete, a true Kalaripayattu student will learn to treat injuries using traditional medicines.

When beginning Kalaripayattu, students undergo an initiation process in which they pay respects to their teacher, as well as the respected deities of Kalaripayattu. This symbolizes a complete submission to and acceptance of the deities, the master and the discipline of the art.

There are many weapons in Kalaripayattu. These include staffs, sticks, swords, knives, shields, spears and daggers. Practitioners of this martial art become proficient in the use of many weapons, as well as physical self-defense techniques.