Anyone who loves action flicks knows how arm wrestling is not as simple and straightforward as it seems. In a game where two individuals test their arm strength against each other, one’s physical skills and mental aptitude could end a round in seconds or prolong it for minutes. This is why arm wrestling isn’t only a subject of cinema, but also an enduring and thriving real-life sport that has deep cultural roots among Filipinos.
Arm wrestling is known in Filipino as bunong braso, or ukbo in Iloilo and sanggol in the Cordillera region. While it has long been featured in local or regional events, the sport has evolved. Leagues and tournaments have now emerged nationwide, with champions even going abroad to represent the country in international competitions.
“We were first approached by a local arm wrestling group for support,” shares Prothin Philippines CEO Marvin Vinluan. “After learning more about it, we saw how accessible it can be. With hardly any special equipment needed, anyone can do it with proper knowledge of the sport. It’s also very Filipino, isn’t it? Many are familiar with bunong braso and find it exciting.”
And he’s right. A quick search on TikTok would yield hundreds of “Arm Wrestling Philippines” videos with millions of total views, proving how pullers or arm wrestlers in the Philippines have gained a dynamic community. “It just needs more mainstream public awareness, and Prothin would like to help as much as we can to highlight a sport that Pinoys can excel in,” Vinluan adds.
For the Philippines’ top arm wrestler Mark Luis Ben, bunong braso’s growing popularity can inspire more people to lead an active life. “Arm wrestling provides a unique way for people to challenge themselves physically and mentally,” says Ben. “It isn’t only about developing muscles and grip strength. It can also help improve focus and concentration as well as problem-solving skills.”
As a Filipino fitness supplements brand, Prothin is helping uplift the local arm wrestling scene with tilts like the Prothin Arm Wrestling Tournament. Hosted in partnership with The Arm Zone league, the brand tapped Ben as a referee at the event, lending his expertise to ensure fair play and sportsmanship.
“We’re grateful that a Filipino brand like Prothin is recognizing bunong braso as a legitimate sport and helping us showcase how this game of strength can also foster a sense of community,” Ben notes. “Their support is enough to invigorate our communities and boost the visibility of arm wrestling to a wider audience.”
“These communities have achieved two things. They have influenced more Filipinos to get moving and they have revived interest in something that’s proudly Pinoy,” Vinluan points out. “As advocates of local fitness and athletic groups, we’re proud to affirm our support for Filipino pullers by giving them a space to enjoy arm wrestling with these Prothin tourneys.”
Prothin is a Filipino fitness supplements brand that offers quality and affordable nutritional products.