Kalarippayattu is an Indian martial art practised in Kerala and contiguous parts of neighboring Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. It incorporates strikes, kicks, grappling, and weaponry, as well as healing techniques. Some of its choreographed sparring can be applied to dance.

Techniques (Adavu) in a Kalarippayattu is a combination of Steps (Chuvadu) and Postures (Vadivu).

There are five steps or Chuvatus and Northern styles of Kalarippayattu have Ashta Vadivukal, or eight postures (vadivu). Each posture has its own style, power combination, usefulness and effectiveness.

The eight postures in kalarippayattu is somewhat same as Five Animals styles in Chinese martial arts, such as Tiger, Crane, Leopard, Snake, and Dragon.

Postures (Vadivu)

Gajavadivu Elephant pose
Simhavadivu Lion pose
Asvavadivu Horse pose
Varahavadivu Wild boar pose
Sarpavadivu Serpent pose
Marjaravadivu Cat pose
Kukkuvadivu Cock pose
Matsyavadivu Fish pose (Gurukkal Govindankutty Nayar and the C.V.N. Style)
Mayuravadivu Peacock pose (Gurukkal P. K. Balan Style)

Steps (Chuvadu)

Vatta Chuvadu
Circular steps
Aakka Chuvadu
Inside steps
Neekka Chuvadu
Moving steps
Kon Chuvadu
Corner steps
Ottakkal Chuvadu
One leg steps

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