THE KENPO STYLE

Martial arts systems are not all the same. Like clothing, each has a unique designer, a specific appeal, and fits every “wearer” in a different way.  As someone who wishes to pursue the martial arts, the choice of which are to train in should be based on what differentiates one art from another, and which would best ‘fit’ you.

Kenpo is arguably one of the most practical styles of self-defense. With stances and strikes based on strategic angles and the laws of physics, its “brain over brawn” mentality maximizes the effectiveness of your body’s movement.

Kenpo is an adaptable art that every person can benefit from both physically and mentally, regardless of age, sex, size, or athletic ability.

Some of Kenpo’s distinguishing characteristics include:

  • Circular movement: Instead of moving in straight lines as most systems do, Kenpoists move in all angles and directions, taking advantage of different lines of attack.

  • Versatility: Kenpoists make use of all body parts as weapons, and they in turn can target all other body parts as targets.

  • Practicality: Many arts focus on acrobatic movements and sporting contests, whereas Kenpo is designed for street self-defense.

CATEGORY OF STYLES

Fighting and self-defense styles have been around as long as mankind, originating from virtually every society and region on Earth. There are many, many styles in existence today ranging from soft styles to hard styles and everything in-between. Overall, three main styles of martial arts prevail:

  • Japanese styles, such as Shotokan, are known for strong, rigid stances and movements.

  • Korean systems, such as Tae Kwon Do and Tang Soo Do, tend to be sport-oriented and focus greatly on the kicking.

  • Chinese arts, such as Kenpo and Kung-Fu, emphasize flowing movements and practicality.

When choosing a style, make sure the overarching philosophy and style represents you and can take advantage of your skills and abilities, and align with your goals.

FAMOUS KENPO PRACTITIONERS

Edmund Kealoha Parker, one of America’s foremost martial arts pioneers—often dubbed the “Father of American Kenpo”—brought Kenpo Karate from China to the U.S. via Hawaii in 1954 (see more under kenpo history). The art’s notoriety increased when it was embraced by Hollywood stuntmen and celebrities alike, most notably music legend Elvis Presley. Ed Parker’s International Karate Championships in Long Beach, California, became the launching pad for the careers of martial arts stars including Chuck Norris and Bruce Lee.

Today, we embrace the principles of Ed Parker’s teaching and the traditions around which the art of Kenpo Karate was formed.