Kachakettal (the traditional dress) and Massage

The traditional dress used in Kalari is known as Kachha and its wearing method is Kachha Kettal. Even though Kachha means only dress, it has a special connotation. The Kachha is referred to in the Northern ballads as a long cloth with 64 Muzhams (one Muzham is equal to 16 inches.) The present day Kachha used in Kalari is of 5 to 6 feet length and one feet width. It is to be wrapped in a particular method which gives maximum tightness to the hip and support cover to the naval region. The belief that power is generated from the naval, is the basis of the art of Kachhakettal. The Kachha is also believed to be the protector of one's prana, the life force. All the heroes of the ballads who succumbed to fatal wounds, have lived till they instruct their fellowmen to untie their Kachha.

It is a practice to apply gingely oil or medicated oil before kalarippayatt. This renders coolness and flexibility to the body and invigorates the veins and muscles. Application of this oil reduces body temperature, while performing exercises.

The students of Kalarippayatt have to undergo a course of Uzhichal or massage with special medicinal oil like Mukkootor Arakuzhambu. Usuallyan Uzhichal course lasts for 14 days. At the time of uzhichal, the student has to follow strict restrictions in his daily routines. He should not expose himself to the sun for a long time, should take only the prescribed food and drink and should follow strict celibacy. Some restrictions are to be followed for 14 days more after the uzhichal is over.

The massage is done with hands for the young and with legs the for elders. This is technically called Kai Uzhichal and Chavitti Uzhichal respectively. Massage is considered to be one of the integral parts of kalari training, which helps the body to attain a healthy constitution as well as flexibility, nimbleness and suppleness. Moreover, massage enables proper blood circulation and removal of excess of fat. It helps in the easy maneuverability of the body for turning and twisting.

Kalari has also developed a traditional orthopedic system which is widely popular all over the state, especially for the setting of displaced bones.