The Principles Of Kempo Fighting Style
Kempo is a form of Karate that has become increasingly popular in the United States. It is a fighting style differentiated from the more sports-oriented Karate, and it incorporates both the hands and feet to defeat an opponent. It is also very similar to most fighting styles utilized in Okinawa.
Considered a complete fighting style, its origins can be traced way back to the time of the Shaolin monks of ancient China. In the 18th century, a martial arts master by the name of To-De Sakugawa journeyed all the way to China from Japan to study under masters of the art of Chuan Fa (what Kung Fu is today). When he returned to Okinawa, he developed a form of fighting called Shuri Te, which became the forerunner of the this present form of Kempo.
It was developed further in 1916 by a man from Hawaii named James Mitose, who travelled to Japan to learn Kosho Ryo Kempo. When he returned, he mentored another student, William Chow, who later developed this fighting style further into into what it is today.
The principles of this form of martial arts teach students to establish their base. This means that they should be firmly rooted on the ground to help block, strike and kick an opponent using maximum force and power. Without planting their feet firmly on terra firma, any of the techniques they use will have very little effect. It is actually similar to steadying oneself in order to push a car or to saw wood in order to achieve maximum force.
Another principle involves distance. Particularly, the distance travelled by the attacking limb before coming into contact with an opponent. Since different people have different limb lengths, this distance may vary. One example is the 1-inch-punch made popular by Bruce Lee for generating a great amount of force. A student of Kempo Karate is taught that while they may generate enough power to the pack the most powerful punch or the most forceful kick, both will have little effect if delivered either too far away from or too close to an opponent.
Economy of motion is also important. Blocking an opponent's strike should always begin with a cocked position, also known as the prelude to a strike. Distance is of vital importance here as well, in order to generate enough power. For instance, one of the more popular moves is an inward block that is followed through with a cross chop or a back fist.
Another principle of this fighting art involves timing. Both blocking and striking rely on the principle of timing. This is especially effective if combined with speed. Fighters will also gain the upper hand if they strive to keep their hands above their opponents', or keep to higher ground, so to speak, which has always been considered an advantage in terms of combat.
Blocking is always done between wrist and elbow from the inside, and above the elbow on the outside, to prevent repeated attacks from the same limb. All possible situations of attack and response are considered, as well, to prevent any untoward situation from developing that may cause disadvantage on the part of a combatant. Finally, a commanding presence forms a vital part of Kempo Karate, maintaining that offense will always be the best defense in order to best take control of the fight from the outset.
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Filed under: Martial Arts Styles
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