The priority of how we train is to be able to deal with real confrontations where an attacker (or attackers) are following no rules. This requires a balance between realism and safety. The classes provide the tools to manage a threatening situation while remaining unharmed. As the student progresses through the art, they develop greater control and accuracy in the use of these techniques. This allows scenarios to be trained more spontaneously, providing further realism, so that there is always a challenge appropriate to the belt level.
Our training method develops logical basics, effective self-defence skills, indomitable spirit and functional fitness.
We have a syllabus from White to Black Belt that builds on these qualities with progressive step-by-step requirements.
The class begins with a combat conditioning warm-up, a few minutes of stretching and a foundation of specific basics that relate to the upcoming lesson. This prepares the body with muscle retention memory (ie. repeating an action until it feels natural). The warm-up includes bodyweight exercises which are one of the fastest ways to fitness and can be performed at home without the need for any equipment.
The majority of class time is a combination of defensive and offensive drills, syllabus techniques, striking the bags and pads, scenario training and controlled sparring. Many lessons also address the mindset of the attacker and how it applies to different situations. Wherever possible, Kenpo terminology is used to highlight principles and concepts of motion. Learning Kenpo teaches “why” certain movements work, instead of simply being told “what” action to take.
Training will develop self-defence skills as well as better health and fitness. Side effects may include increased self-confidence and greater self-discipline. It’s an enjoyable experience.
“I am not going to show you my art. I am going to share it with you.
If I show it to you it becomes an exhibition,
and in time it will be pushed so far into the back of your mind that it will be lost.
But by sharing it with you, you will not only retain it forever, but I, too, will improve.”
Ed Parker