Everything You Need to Know About Kempo

If you're drawn to Kempo and want to learn more about its practice, history, or unique features, you’re in the right place. Let's dive in!

What is the Origin of the Term “Kempo”?

Kempo (or Kento) refers to a martial discipline that encompasses various Japanese martial arts, developed in the early 20th century. The term “Kempo” originates from two Chinese characters, Quan-Fa or Chuan-Fa, known in the West as Kung-Fu.

In Japanese, these characters are pronounced Ken-Po or Kem-Po. During the geopolitical tensions of the 1930s, the Japanese replaced the term Kempo with karate to distance the discipline from its Chinese roots.

What Does Kempo Entail?

Kempo is renowned for its complex approach, incorporating a wide range of techniques, including:

• Strikes with arms and legs 🥋
• Strikes with knees and elbows
• Sweeps, throws, and projections
• Pins and immobilizations
• Torsions and strangulations
• Ground fighting with strikes
• Weapons training
• Traditional medicine
• Traditional massage techniques

How Has Kempo Developed Over Time?

Kempo is considered one of the earliest forms of fighting globally, focusing on elaborate techniques and rigorous training processes. Originating in China and later adapted by the Japanese, Kempo quickly spread across Asia and eventually worldwide.

Many renowned martial arts masters began with Kempo and later developed new fighting styles based on the techniques they learned. Notable pioneers include:

• Gichin Funakoshi – Founder of Shotokan Karate
• Masutatsu Oyama – Founder of Kyokushin Karate
• Chojun Miyagi – Founder of Goju-Ryu

What is the Hierarchy in Kempo?

Kempo uses a specific kimono and belt system to reflect the practitioner’s level of skill:

• White Belt with Yellow Stripe (5 Kyu)
• Yellow Belt (7 Kyu)
• Orange Belt
• Green Belt
• Blue Belt
• Brown Belt
• Black Belt (1st Dan - Sempai)
• Black Belt (2nd, 3rd, 4th Dan - Sensei)
• Black Belt (5th Dan - Renji)
• Black Belt (6th, 7th Dan - Shihan)
• Black Belt (8th, 9th Dan)
• Black Belt (10th Dan - Meijin)

What Are the Most Notable Kempo Styles?

Some renowned Kempo styles include:

• Kosho Shorei Ryu: Also known as the “Old Pine” style, founded by Japanese monks approximately 750 years ago. It includes weapon and empty-hand techniques, vital point strikes, traditional medicine, and massage.

• Kara-Ho: Developed in Hawaii by Master William Chow, this style is known for its unique combination of Shaolin techniques.

• American Kempo: Founded by Edmund Kealoha Parker, this complex style is based on ancient self-defense techniques adapted for everyday life.

• Shaolin Kempo: Created by Master Chen Tao Tze in the Netherlands post-World War II, this style combines Shaolin traditions with modern techniques.

How Do Kempo Competitions Work?

Kempo competitions are divided into 12 events, including 6 traditional (Kata, Synchronized Kata, Kata with Weapons, Self-Defense, Self-Defense with Weapons, and Gladiator) and 6 fighting categories (Semi-Kempo, Full-Kempo, Mix-Kempo Ukado, Knockdown, Kempo K1, and Kempo Grappling).

Globally, Kempo has around 15 million participants. If you want to join them, find a nearby club and start training! Need the right gear?

We’ve got you covered with the best Kempo equipment. Check out our Kempo gear collection to get started! 💪