KENPO KARATE

Kenpo Karate(拳法唐手) can be translated approximately as "law of the fist" and "Chinese hand," reflecting the system's historical roots in both Chinese and Japanese martial arts. Kenpo developed through the meeting of these traditions and combines linear and circular movement, rapid striking and kicking techniques, combinations, and practical self-defence. Its Chinese heritage can be seen particularly in the emphasis on flow, continuity, and adaptability, while the Japanese and Okinawan traditions contributed structure and systematisation.

During the twentieth century, Kenpo continued to develop in Hawaii and the United States. William K. S. Chow became a central link between the older Hawaiian Kenpo tradition and later systems. From the same martial environment emerged, among others, Edmund K. Parker Sr.'s American Kenpo and Adriano D. Emperado's Kajukenbo, also associated with terms such as Chinese Kempo and Chuan Fa. These branches developed in different directions, but share a background in which Kenpo interacted with Chinese Kung Fu, Karate, and other Asian martial arts. The result was systems with a strong emphasis on speed, combinations, practical application, and the ability to adapt technique to the situation.

At Sanchin Budokai, we practise Sanchin Budokai Kenpo Karate, with modern American Kenpo as its technical foundation and clear influences from Kenpo's Chinese-Hawaiian heritage, including Chinese Kempo/Kajukenbo and Chuan Fa. Training includes strikes, kicks, footwork, combinations, and self-defence techniques, with a strong emphasis on clear progression, controlled partner training, technical understanding, and practical effectiveness. The aim is to develop a solid technical foundation without locking the practitioner into fixed solutions, instead building the ability to move naturally and adapt technique to the situation.