Lucha del garrote (Canary Islands) (2025)

Canary Islands, Spain

The exact origin of the Lucha del Garrote is unclear, but it is believed to have evolved as a practical form of self-defense. During Spain's medieval and Renaissance periods, many regions, particularly in the rural areas, saw the development of weapons like the garrote for both personal defense and combat. It was likely influenced by earlier forms of stick fighting found throughout Europe and other parts of the world.
Canarian herdsman have always made extensive use of poles, using them for support when moving about on difficult terrain and also to defend themselves whenever the circumstances required.
By the 16th century, Lucha del Garrote was an established fighting style practiced across various regions of Spain. It was used both for military training and as a means of resolving disputes or defending against attackers. In this period, the garrote was seen not only as a tool of combat but also as a symbol of strength and discipline.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the art saw a formalization of techniques, with the development of more sophisticated rules and training methods. Its practical utility and distinctive style made it popular among Spanish peasants, farmers, and even some soldiers. The garrote was often carried for personal protection, especially in rural areas where law enforcement might be scarce.

Source: https://www.caballerosdecalradia.net/t3094-la-lucha-del-palo-un-arte-marcial-canaria

The aim of this form of fighting is to defeat one’s opponent without doing him harm. The most notable aspects of this sport are the unique enganches (techniques for immobilising the opponent’s pole) and revoleadas (creating an opening for attack), the zapatas and trabas that are used to knock one’s opponent over, the manner in which the fighters face each other squarely and the use of a large and solid pole, which is usually as long as the fighter is tall, or sometimes a quarter longer. However, the determining characteristic of this form of fighting is not the size of the poles, but rather the way in which the poles are gripped and wielded.
The main tactic consists of using the pole to cover the body while attacking at the same time, which is why the contenders face each other squarely, this being the most stable and secure position that enables the fighter to protect himself with the pole while being able to make equal use of both ends of the pole for attacking. Two characteristic attacking movements are el braceo and mudar las manos.

The technique of the club fight depends on two factors:
On the one hand, it depends on the type of stick that is used, since the size and type of wood with which the piece is made are factors to consider. And on the other hand, we have the technique, which is acquired depending on the school where the wrestler has been trained.
The game consists of giving without being reached, for this, you have to use both hands, using body parts, hooks, etc.
The player or fighter must have great speed with the feet, skill with the arms and many reflexes.
The sticks can receive a wide variety of names depending on the Island or the place: Palo, Garrote, Lata, Asta, Astia, Vara, Lanza, Regatón, Vera, etc.
Regarding the classification of the clubs, the following differentiation has been reached:

Palo largo or grande: it is the largest of all, preferably used by shepherds, and can have various measures, although one of the shepherd's size is used to play. As for thickness, they are usually of a homogeneous diameter that fits the hands. This type of stick, being larger and thicker, gives more forceful blows. It is usually grasped by the center and the ends are used to hit.
Palo medio: of this type there is a great variety of measures, although generally it extends from the ground to the heart. As for thickness, they are usually thicker at one end than at the other.
This stick can be grasped by either end, although it is generally held by the thickest part.
This stick is usually used, normally, in the technique called "collecting", which is mainly based on defensive techniques.
Palo corto or Macana: it is a very effective and dangerous tool, if you know how to use it it can cause great damage to your opponent. To use it requires great skill with your hands and arms.
Very fast footwork is also required. Sometimes it was the case that the fighter had been or was a dancer himself.
The materials with which these instruments were made used to be the woods obtained from fruit and endemic trees, typical of the Canary Islands. In the Eastern Islands, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, the wood had to be imported from other places due to the lack of good woods for the manufacture of quality clubs. The choice and cutting of wood is part of an ancient ritual, which depends on the phases of the moon; straightens with fire.

The types of trees most used for this purpose are:

• Fruit trees: Quince tree (Cydonia Oblonga), Almond tree (Prunus Amygdalus), Plum tree (Prunus domesticus).
• Endemic Trees: Palm (Phoenix canariensis), Barbusano (Apollonias barbujana), Palo Blanco (Picconia excelsa), Acebuche (Olea europaea), Canary Island Pine (Pinus canariensis).

With the rise of modern firearms and more sophisticated weapons, the Lucha del Garrote gradually declined in popularity as a practical martial art. However, it never completely disappeared. In the 20th century, efforts to preserve and revive the tradition began, particularly in the Canary Islands, where the art form saw some of its most passionate practitioners. Today, it is still practiced as a form of cultural heritage and martial art in some parts of Spain, though it is not as widely known or practiced as other forms of martial arts.
While not as commonly practiced today, Lucha del Garrote remains an important part of Spanish martial tradition. The art is often demonstrated in cultural festivals or as part of local celebrations, particularly in the Canary Islands.
In recent years, Lucha del Garrote has made a resurgence as part of efforts to preserve traditional Spanish martial arts, and some practitioners seek to maintain its techniques and cultural value as a form of physical and historical expression.

Lucha del Garrote holds significant importance in both the cultural and martial traditions of Spain, especially within regions like the Canary Islands. Its importance can be understood from several perspectives:

1. Cultural Heritage: Lucha del Garrote is an integral part of Spain’s rich martial history, representing a deep connection to the country’s past, particularly in rural areas where people needed practical skills for self-defense and survival. It’s more than just a fighting art; it is a cultural practice that connects contemporary Spaniards with their ancestors, reflecting a time when hand-to-hand combat with simple tools like the garrote was essential. In this sense, the art is seen as an expression of local identity, tradition, and pride.
2. Martial Skill and Discipline: As a martial art, Lucha del Garrote is an important discipline that helps practitioners develop key physical and mental skills, including: Coordination and Agility: The movements required to handle the garrote involve coordination between the hands, feet, and body, demanding a high level of agility.
3. Strength and Endurance: The art places great emphasis on physical conditioning, as wielding the garrote requires upper-body strength and stamina, especially in prolonged bouts. Tactical Thinking: Like many martial arts, Lucha del Garrote encourages strategic thinking, as practitioners need to anticipate their opponent’s movements and respond quickly. Through its practice, individuals also learn patience, respect, and discipline, qualities that are emphasized in many traditional martial arts.
4. Self-Defense and Practical Use: Historically, Lucha del Garrote was a highly practical skill for personal protection. During periods when law enforcement was limited, especially in rural and isolated areas, individuals needed to defend themselves against both wild animals and potential human threats. The garrote itself was a commonly carried tool for self-defense, and learning how to wield it effectively could make the difference between life and death. The martial art, therefore, was not just about fighting for sport—it had tangible, real-world applications.
5. Social and Communal Function: In the past, Lucha del Garrote played a social role in communities, particularly in festivals and public demonstrations. These events brought people together to celebrate local traditions and provide an opportunity for friendly competition. The martial art became a way to show off one’s skill and strength within a community, fostering social connections and a sense of camaraderie. In this sense, Lucha del Garrote has contributed to the development of local community identity and pride.
6. Preservation of Traditional Knowledge: Today, as modern weapons and self-defense techniques have replaced older methods, Lucha del Garrote stands as a vital cultural practice that helps preserve the knowledge of traditional Spanish martial arts. Efforts to revive the practice are crucial in ensuring that future generations have access to this piece of history. As a result, Lucha del Garrote is often taught in specialized schools or by masters who aim to pass on their expertise to younger generations, ensuring the survival of the art.
7. Revival of Traditional Arts: In recent years, the resurgence of interest in traditional martial arts has sparked renewed attention to Lucha del Garrote. This has led to its recognition as part of Spain’s intangible cultural heritage, ensuring that this art form receives the preservation and promotion it deserves. The revival not only ensures the survival of the practice but also allows modern practitioners to learn valuable lessons from the art’s historical context.

In conclusion, Lucha del Garrote is important not just for its martial utility, but for its role in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community identity, and promoting physical and mental discipline. As an art form, it represents the resilience and adaptability of Spanish martial traditions, surviving through centuries of social, political, and technological change.

Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario
Calle Morra Negra nº 26 Subida Chajaña, 38592, Icor Arico, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tel. (+34) 629 07 19 08
Web: https://garrotecanario.es/
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Fb: https://www.facebook.com/federacion.luchadelgarrote
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fedluchagarrotecanario

Club Deportivo del Juego del Palo Canario Maragat – Hirgwan

Books:
Jorge Domínguez Naranjo, Introducción a la historia de la lucha del garrote, Viceconsejería de Cultura y Deportes, 1990
Jorge Domínguez Naranjo, Historia sobre la lucha del garrote juego tradicional canario, Gobierno de Canarias, 1990
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Catón de La Lucha del Garrote, Gobierno de Canarias. Viceconsejería de Cultura y Deportes. Dirección General de Juventud 1991
A. Gonzalez, A., G. Martinez, El Juego del Palo Canario. Centro de Cultura Popular Canaria. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 1992
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, El juego de la lata (garrote) y el juego del palo en Lanzarote, Centro de la Cultura Popular Canaria - Cabildo Insular de Lanzarote, 1997
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Lucha del garrote. Catón, Gobierno de Canarias. Viceconsejería de Cultura y Deportes. Dirección General de Deportes-Centro de la Cultura Popular Canaria, 2000
Carlos Barrera, Garrote Canario, Budo Internacional, Excmo. Ayuntamiento de San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario, 2005
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo. El tolete canario. Origen y rescate, Gobierno de Canarias - Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario, 2006
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, La lucha autóctona del garrote canario. Estructura técnica y funcional, Gobierno de Canarias. Consejería de Educación, Universidades, Cultura y Deportes-Cabildo de Gran Canaria. Instituto Insular de Deportes, 2008
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Reglamento Técnico Definitorio del Tolete Canario, Gráficas Atlántica, 2015
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, El Garrote Canario. Origen y rescate, Gobierno Canario y Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario, 2016
Carlos Barrera, Garrote Canario. Técnicas Superiores, Budo Internacional, Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario, 2018
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Lucha del Garrote Canario. Higiene postural, Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario- Gobierno de Canarias-Cabildo de Fuerteventura, 2020
Jorge Domínguez, Carlos Barrera, Garrote Canario & Tolete Canarios, Budo Internacional,Excmo. Cabildo de Fuerteventura , Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario, 2021
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Lucha del Garrote Canario: Higiene postural y Técnicas Básicas. Cuadernos Técnicos, 1, Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario - Gobierno de Canarias-Cabildo de Fuerteventura, 2022
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Lucha del Garrote: variantes y complementos. Cuadernos Técnicos 2, Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario-Gobierno de Canarias-Cabildo de Tenerife, 2022
Jorge Dominguez Naranjo, Garrote Canario: enganches, derribos y acaimos. Cuadernos Técnicos 3, Federación de Lucha del Garrote Canario-Gobierno de Canarias-Cabildo de Gran Canaria, 2023
Cristóbal L. Nuez García, la Lucha del Garrote. Arte de combate y herramienta educativa, Bilenio Educación, 2024
Carlos Barrera, Pedro González, Antonio Cabrera, Francisco Govantes, Tolete Canario, Budo Internacional, Excmo. Cabildo de Fuerteventura, Federación de Lulcha del Garrote Canario, 2024

Articles:
https://marcacanaria.com/lucha-del-garrote-un-deporte-tradicional-de-canarias/
https://culturatradicionalgc.org/lucha-del-garrote-y-juego-del-palo/
https://www3.gobiernodecanarias.org/medusa/wiki/index.php?title=Lucha_del_garrote&fbclid=IwAR0sujCv5khpUt6ia3L4HBCPZ_ODBbN6UmF0tMQq8L7IpIvilU-2pudt2N8
https://elrincondelaikido.blogspot.com/2014/12/juego-del-garrote-canario.html?fbclid=IwAR3Tdr8RLOlS67JF9aaJ7p05vUvyRMCncnRwNadeMAY6EoLy6xXxvLW9iqY
https://ejmas.com/jwma/articles/2000/jwmaart_wolf_0500.html

Photos:
https://www.caballerosdecalradia.net/t3094-la-lucha-del-palo-un-arte-marcial-canaria

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCwxP7Inkgo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m57uQzXqPJw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqbv9qqq7nQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qk-PP18owEk&t=4s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-6UaT9qlXk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSPl7P2y-aI

The information contained in the article comes from the following sources:
https://www.grancanaria.com/turismo/en/sports/local-sports/lucha-del-garrote-pole-fighting/
https://culturatradicionalgc.org/lucha-del-garrote-y-juego-del-palo/

Source of photos used in this article and gallery:
https://libroscanarios.org/se-presenta-en-la-biblioteca-insular-de-gran-canaria-un-lote-de-libros-didacticos-dedicados-a-la-lucha-del-garrote-canario/
https://marcacanaria.com/lucha-del-garrote-un-deporte-tradicional-de-canarias/
https://www.biosferadigital.com/articulo/cultura/abierto-plazo-participar-taller-lucha-garrote-canario/20240508181324138578.html
https://www.guiadeisora.org/corp/la-federacion-de-lucha-del-garrote-canario-celebra-este-fin-de-semana-su-asamblea-general-en-guia-de-isora/
https://diariodeavisos.elespanol.com/2019/08/la-lucha-canaria-no-falla-a-su-cita-con-la-virgen-de-candelaria/
https://garrotazosblog.wordpress.com/2014/10/22/ii-jornadas-culturales-guanches-los-silos-tenerife/
https://www.caballerosdecalradia.net/t3094-la-lucha-del-palo-un-arte-marcial-canaria