-- Gary Ellis Kenpo Karate --

Kenpo Karate FAQ

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Kenpo Karate:

What is American Kenpo Karate and what is the difference between this and other systems of Martial Arts?

American Kenpo Karate is a progressive mixed Martial Art developed by Ed Parker.
It is a self-defense system based upon logic versus tradition.

Will my child become too aggressive if he studies Karate?

No. We emphasize self control as fundamental to Karate. Rather than increase hostility, we have found that our training program contributes to successfully moderating the behavior of children who were overly aggressive.
However, in every case, we will help determine if Karate is right for your child.
Our studio also presents Positive Role Models for children, reinforcing by example the life skills we teach.

Will Karate really teach my child discipline?

Yes. The traditional discipline and respect in a Karate school is something children want to participate in: Saluting instructors, bowing in the studio area, and obedience to the teachers are fun and part of promotion requirements.
We have found that children respond to the dignity and tradition of Karate and enjoy the self-discipline it teaches.

Am I too old to take karate?

No, today will be the youngest day that you could ever start.

Do I need to be in shape before I begin?

No. As you train, your conditioning will improve. Each individual is different and we would like you to gradually improve your physical conditioning through consistent attendance in class.  We tailor the Art to the individual and not the individual to the Art.

Do you teach children and adults together?
 
No. Teaching them together robs both of proper instruction and ignores the skills and inabilities of their respective ages. No reputable education system presents information to adults on a child's level, or vice versa.

What will my child learn in your school?

Self Esteem, Discipline, Confidence, Respect and Karate Skills. You will see results quickly - we make participation fun, and exercise becomes a daily habit. Our goals are to develop children's self confidence, good sportsmanship, fairness to others, and positive character.
Our program is specifically geared towards children and their needs. We emphasize the fun aspects of Karate as a means of achieving these goals.

Will I be hurt? Is it dangerous?

Apart from the odd bump or bruise we have never had any serious or injury as result of training. It is compulsory for both male and female students to wear protective groin guards as soon as possible for obvious reasons!
Padded foam gloves, shin pads, foot pads, helmets and gum shields are mandatory during freestyle or sparring.
The aim of any Martial Arts Student is to learn control and as a result broken arms etc are an extreme exception!

What should I wear?

For the first few weeks you can wear normal sports gear or loose fitting clothes. However, if you have done a different style previously you can of course wear that uniform/gi with
a white belt.

Are the classes taught in Japanese/Korean/Chinese?

Many traditional styles use their country of origins vocabulary during the class, counting in
Japanese, Korean etc. Ed Parker, the founder of our style of martial art was born in Hawaii hence all the language used is English. Names of self defence techniques are broken down into codes/descriptive memory aids. For example, Wing meaning elbow, Sword for a chop, Mace for a fist etc. See the techniques section for a list of all techniques. A roundhouse kick is called simply that as are all other 'basics' you will learn.

How long does it take to get a black belt?
 
In Kenpo Karate, it takes approximately 5 years to reach student Black Belt.