With the help of the available historical evidences, the present practicing traditions origin can be traced back to the 12th century A.D. The word 'Kalaripayattu' literally means 'combat training inside the gymnasium'. The word kalari has been derived from the sanskrit 'kholoorika' meaning a military training ground. The traditional training of Kalaripayattu is always done inside a 'Kalari' which is a specially constructed practicing area, where the presiding deities of the art and the entire line of gurus of the tradition is ritualistically represented. Not only is the Kalari a temple of learning, it is also a temple of religious worship with a cult and ritual of its own. The master who is addressed as the 'Gurukkal' is revered as the representative of the deity and is considered as the living embodiment of a long line of gurus

The training consists of self-disciplinary training an physical culture. The pupils are given regular physical exercises and training in the use of such weapons as Kuruvai (short stick), spear, dagger, sword shield etc. The most promising of the trainees are taught the Marmas, viz the vulnerable points in the human system. The Kalaripayattu training aims at the ultimate co-ordination of minds and body

The traditional training of the Kalari Gurukkal includes as can be seen in some other martial arts, specialization in indigenous medical preparations and techniques of treatment and healthcare. Based on the Ayurvedic system of medical practice the old masters of Kalaripayattu has indigenously developed methods of treatments for Kalari related injuries like bruises, fractures etc. known as kalarichikilsa. The training of the gurukkal also includes the special system of full body oil massage to develop flexibility and muscular texture and also the stimulate circulation to maintain general health and blood