Ok.... Ask a Question and I will try and answer it.....

Who is first........
:asian:

what do you have for an accent mark?

:asian:

This should be easy. What's the difference between the underhand heel of palm and an upward claw? Is it the height of the strike or what?
Salute,
Jason Farnsworth

originally form seven was a double knife fom. why was it changed to a double stick form. how do you think this use of weapons in kenpo compares with the filipino systems. kenpo seems to lack counter to counter drills when it comes to the weapons, i feel this is a big gap in training and is necessary if you areto be realistic. what are your thoughts on this subject.

If you had to pick 10 things to pass on in the kenpo curriculum what would they be? They can be anything from specific techs. to particular concepts to general ideas.

Originally posted by Rainman
what do you have for an accent mark?


anywhere or during the Sal?


:asian:

Originally posted by jfarnsworth
What's the difference between the underhand heel of palm and an upward claw? Is it the height of the strike or what?

A underhand heelpalm is a heel palm thrown as it rises from a low region upwards ..... and hits strictly with the palm heel

A upward Claw is a maneuver similar to the upward heelpalm but also uses the fingers in a "clawing" fashion .


:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



anywhere or during the Sal?


:asian:


I said what do you have- not what I already said:rofl: No cheating:p



:asian:

Goldendragon,
I looked at the underhand heel of palm as a strike to the groin stopping on a lower plain. The upward claw on the other hand I execute as a strike going towards face level on a higher plain.
Jason Farnsworth

Originally posted by eternalwhitebelt
originally form seven was a double knife fom. why was it changed to a double stick form. how do you think this use of weapons in kenpo compares with the filipino systems. kenpo seems to lack counter to counter drills when it comes to the weapons, i feel this is a big gap in training and is necessary if you areto be realistic. what are your thoughts on this subject.
Well, the knife form was finished first and initially dubbed Form 7

When the stick form was done.. Mr. Parker decided to move it to the higher position and change it to Form 8.

It is different from the fma because Ed Parker had differing views on the use of the knife in certain circumstances.

I think the realization of your question is proof of the product. If you realize, thru the use of Kenpo Logic that there is a necessity for a different drill to emphasis a weakness..... that's how we evolve and plug holes.... how do you think we arrived with several of the Forms, sets, techniques, and drills.

:asian:

Originally posted by eternalwhitebelt
If you had to pick 10 things to pass on in the kenpo curriculum what would they be? They can be anything from specific techs. to particular concepts to general ideas.

1) Analytical study of motion....
2) Short 1
3) Long 1
4) Short 2
5) Long 2
6) Short 3
7) Long 3
8) Long 4
9) Long 5
10) Long 6

:asian:

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Rainman
I said what do you have- not what I already said.
[/QUOTE

From the 2nd hand signal (at right) as you raise your elbow and hand (warrior & Scholar)] the right hand blocks as the left heel palm strikes......

Now I'm not gonna let go all of these ........ mister....... lol

:asian:

Originally posted by jfarnsworth
I looked at the underhand heel of palm as a strike to the groin stopping on a lower plain. The upward claw on the other hand I execute as a strike going towards face level on a higher plain.
Jason Farnsworth

You CAN look at it that way also..... but they are two different strikes..... :) an upward heelpalm can also be to the chin, likewise an upward claw can be delivered upward to the groin.

:asian:

The difference being the fingers are used as the secondary back up weapons!:D
Salute,
Jason Farnsworth

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

[ Now I'm not gonna let go all of these ........ mister....... lol

:asian: [/B]


:roflmao:


:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

Ok.... Ask a Question and I will try and answer it.....

Who is first........
:asian:

If it is true, that AK techniques will continue to evolve, but then, why not the forms as well? Just Curious!:asian:

Originally posted by RCastillo
If it is true, that AK techniques will continue to evolve, but then, why not the forms as well? Just Curious!:asian:

Remember the 1st 4 Forms are considered the Dictionary's of Kenpo...... then short 3 up are considered the Encyclopedias...... and the sets are the appendices....

Think of the forms as the head of the Octopus and the techniques are the tentacles.......

:asian:

If a train left New York at noon going to Los Angeles, and at
the same time on the same track a train is leaving Los Angeles
and headed for New York, both trains are going a speed of 98
miles per hour .. at what time will the emminent collision happen?

:rofl:

I have seen this technique, but this one I beleive would not work in a real life situation. I have try doing this technique, it hurts my shoulders to reach up like that and grab. Second if they have a tight squeeze on your neck you got on seconds to get it off. Third I have heard of people trying to do a thumb lock with the back of the neck. thats B.S also. It is easier for the attacker to pull you back then is for you to pull him forward. I beleive in have a couple base techniques that work really well. Then having many that may only work occasional.
Bob :asian:

Originally posted by Kirk
If a train left New York at noon going to Los Angeles, and at
the same time on the same track a train is leaving Los Angeles
and headed for New York, both trains are going a speed of 98
miles per hour .. at what time will the emminent collision happen?


There always has to be one.......... 12:o'clock...... not it time to save the trains....... but I'll have to track this one..... But if I went to the Stations 2 hours after they left and no one was around..... I would know that they left! (I could see their tracks)

Now smart guy....... KENPO QUESTIONS ONLY ....... geez

:rofl:
:asian:

Originally posted by Kempojujutsu
I have seen this technique, but this one I beleive would not work in a real life situation. I have try doing this technique, it hurts my shoulders to reach up like that and grab. Second if they have a tight squeeze on your neck you got on seconds to get it off. Third I have heard of people trying to do a thumb lock with the back of the neck. thats B.S also. It is easier for the attacker to pull you back then is for you to pull him forward. I beleive in have a couple base techniques that work really well. Then having many that may only work occasional.
Bob :asian:

Well Bob,

Each technique/drill is taught for a reason, and they are only different possibilities that one may use to escape from a given attack. It certainly is not the only technique you could use and can be modified via knowledge of your "kenpo tools", i.e., you could stomp the instep to loosen up the grip so as to make it easier to escape thru the knowledgeable use of the equation formula's prefix.

I don't know exactly how clearly it was explained to you. There are several interpretations ..... here is an idea also...... you don't even need the hands to escape this hold..... you step off to your left and dip your head (as is done in the base explanation) and turn counter clockwise (without the hand grabs) and raise up. That alone can release the grip. From there you can left reverse sword hand to the groin or run.....

There are many, many different understandings of each technique to explore ask your instructor and keep working and studying the system ......... Your questions will lead you to the truth and knowledge.

:asian:

How do you explain the hand isolations at the end of form six? Disarms? Do you explicitely teach this, or do you just say they are disarms( if they are), and leave the student to try to figure out how they are applied?

EXcellent use of this forum. I have been waiting for this to be used for the right purposes.

When you teach short one how indepth do you go? Do you just explain walking the neutral with a double factor block, or do you unload everything you know about it? Could you unload some of the more esoteric knowledge you have concerning this form? Just a little something off the wall that will get me thinking.

Originally posted by eternalwhitebelt
How do you explain the hand isolations at the end of form six? Disarms? Do you explicitely teach this, or do you just say they are disarms( if they are), and leave the student to try to figure out how they are applied?
EXcellent use of this forum. I have been waiting for this to be used for the right purposes.

at the end of Long 6 are (don't tell anyone now.... this is secret)
the Right and Left hand movements of the 1st Technique in the form, and the next set are the Right and Left hand movements of the last technique in the form.

Thank you...... I think this is also a productive and useful way to ask questions.

:asian:

Originally posted by Kirk
If a train left New York at noon going to Los Angeles, and at
the same time on the same track a train is leaving Los Angeles
and headed for New York, both trains are going a speed of 98
miles per hour .. at what time will the emminent collision happen?

Call the train station. They pay people to figure this out for you.

Originally posted by eternalwhitebelt
When you teach short one how indepth do you go? Do you just explain walking the neutral with a double factor block, or do you unload everything you know about it? Could you unload some of the more esoteric knowledge you have concerning this form? Just a little something off the wall that will get me thinking.

All my teaching depends upon who I am teaching at that time. If it is an adult or child I may vary the type of instruction..... Lets talk adult and beginner........

I teach the basic form and do not "unload" (as you say lol) the entire realm of possibilities (that would take me several hours or days anyway). They are beginners and as such can and need only the basic understandings at this time, Emphasis ("at this time"). Kenpo is a "Process" and as such we need only to impart the necessary material that the student needs right now. At a later date once they have matured with skill and familiarity of the form (or technique) then it is time to impart more of the meanings and usage of the Form.

The 1st 4 Forms to our system are the dictionary's of the system and as such define movements that we use. here are a few....

Short Form # 1 teaches .....
Retreat while blocking with the front arm
Double factor
Rotation..... arm/body
Increasing depth
narrowing width
dropping height
4 basic blocks
180 degree angle changes
90 degree angle changes
to cover
opposing forces
settling
eye focus
peripheral vision
transitory covers
rear leg buckles
front leg checks
multiple striking within one motion
others.......

Mr. Parker has a saying.... "In motion is motion often overlooked"

:asian:

Do you still find time to physically practice alone each week and if so, how much time on average?
Respectfully,
Mace

I knew that they are the 1st movements of the first and last techs. in the form, I just wanted to know if you taught any applications for these movements. They seem to be very similar to filipino strips.

Originally posted by Mace
Do you still find time to physically practice alone each week and if so, how much time on average?


Of late, no I don't work out physically, more teaching and administrative. When I do it is usually for 30 minutes to an hour at this point in my life. When I was younger I would spend 3 to 4 hours a day.

:asian:

When you do get the chance to practice, what do you practice the most?

Also, I have heard many times the first four forms are the dictonary of kenpo and the others the encyclopedias. Could you please expand on this a little more what you mean?


:asian:
(a little slow of mind still, but improving)

Originally posted by Kirk

If a train left New York at noon going to Los Angeles, and at
the same time on the same track a train is leaving Los Angeles
and headed for New York, both trains are going a speed of 98
miles per hour .. at what time will the emminent collision happen?

:rofl:

( Please excuse the non-Kempo/Kenpo answer *)

I believe that the collision will not occur.

If A train left at Noon from NY and then
left at 9 AM from LA which is actually three
hours time delayed, when one would think the
trains would meet, would not occur since the
frame of reference for each train would be at
a different time. Therefore, the trains would
not collide since they would not be in the
same place at the same time.

See what a little bit of Philosophy and Mathematics
and late night bonfires and beer can get you. :D

Back to Kempo/Kenpo - My apologies for the interruption.

Rich

Originally posted by Rich Parsons



( Please excuse the non-Kempo/Kenpo answer *)

I believe that the collision will not occur.

If A train left at Noon from NY and then
left at 9 AM from LA which is actually three
hours time delayed, when one would think the
trains would meet, would not occur since the
frame of reference for each train would be at
a different time. Therefore, the trains would
not collide since they would not be in the
same place at the same time.

See what a little bit of Philosophy and Mathematics
and late night bonfires and beer can get you. :D

Back to Kempo/Kenpo - My apologies for the interruption.

Rich

Aha, but they're on the same track, with a set velocity. The
NY train would leave at noon EST, and the LA train would leave
at noon PST. So you'd have to factor in 3 hours of distance on
the NY train (3 x 98). Given the distance, 98 mph isn't all that
much, so a collision, I THINK would be eminant. I'm not gonna
actually figure it out though, it was a joke :-D .. but I couldn't
resist arguing with ya! ;)

Originally posted by Kirk



Aha, but they're on the same track, with a set velocity. The
NY train would leave at noon EST, and the LA train would leave
at noon PST. So you'd have to factor in 3 hours of distance on
the NY train (3 x 98). Given the distance, 98 mph isn't all that
much, so a collision, I THINK would be eminant. I'm not gonna
actually figure it out though, it was a joke :-D .. but I couldn't
resist arguing with ya! ;)

You know, I always hated math in school, and I still hate it now. It's time to end this exercise in futility right now!



:redeme:

Hi Dennis

3 quick questions:confused:

When teaching a step through side blade kick does your supporting foot stay in a neutal 45 degrees OR pivot to 90, 180 degrees?

When sparring what guard position do you prefer? One high/one low OR both high (boxing style) covering the head?

After a belt test do you have a standard belt giving ceremony. If so what do you do and say?

Cheers Dominic
:D

Originally posted by Klondike93
When you do get the chance to practice, what do you practice the most?

Also, I have heard many times the first four forms are the dictionary of kenpo and the others the encyclopedias. Could you please expand on this a little more what you mean?

1)
It all depends upon what I am working on at the current time. Some times it techniques, sometimes its forms, always work on basics and form...... balance also.

2)
Definitions "define" motion........ encyclopedias "explain details"....

:asian:

Originally posted by Dominic Jones
When teaching a step through side blade kick does your supporting foot stay in a neutal 45 degrees OR pivot to 90, 180 degrees?

When sparring what guard position do you prefer? One high/one low OR both high (boxing style) covering the head?

After a belt test do you have a standard belt giving ceremony. If so what do you do and say?

Cheers Dominic

1)
My base (left) foot pivots (points back) towards 7:o clock (if kicking with the right)

2)
* I use several positions depending up who my opponent is an
what he does.....
*If he is a head hunter then at least my lead hand is high......
*If a lead leg groin kicker my rear hand is usually lower....
*Normally both hands are mid chest or front hand low on my hips
and rear hand near center chest, until I figure out what he
does.........

3)
I posted the belt ceremony once on Martial Talk.......

FORMAL PROCEDURES TO BE OBSERVED DURING EXAMINATION FOR PROMOTION (Observers are not permitted to witness the Formal Test)

During the testing period for promotion, the following formalities should be adhered to:

LINE UP The students (or student) being tested will be commanded to line up at the designated area.

TRAINING HORSE - They will then be commanded to execute a Training Horse Stance (with their fists clenched and cocked on their hips).

They are to remain in this stance until the Board of Examiners
(Testing Committee) give them further instructions.

MEDITATE Meditation will be the next command.

ATTENTION Attention will be the next command.

SALUTATION The group will then be commanded to execute the Full Salutation.

BOW The command to bow will then be given.

SIT DOWN Students being tested will then be commanded to sit down on the mat, cross their legs, sit erect, and keep their hands on their laps. (The Board of Examiners has the option to request that students stand, reposition themselves, or make any other adjustments dictated by environment, or by the nature of the Test.)

FRONT & CENTER When student names are called, they are to come to the front, center themselves before the Board, stand at
Attention (with their hands alongside their legs), and focus their attention on the Chief Examiner conducting the test.

RESPONSE Students will then listen to what is asked of them and
respond, "Yes Sir", in acknowledgement of each and every request.

COMMENCE Depending upon the request, the student will commence by demonstrating his skill and knowledge according to the best of his ability.

SALUTE After completing everything that is requested, the student will then salute the Board of Examiners and await the command to return.

RETURN The student will then be commanded to return to his/her position and await further instructions. (Encourage
students to take prompt action when returning to their former position.)

LINE UP At the conclusion of the testing period, all students will
be commanded to line up in a straight line in front of the Board
of Examiners. They will then be commanded to remain in a
Training Horse Stance (with their fists clenched and cocked on
heir hips.)

They are to remain fast and await further instructions.

DECISION - At this point the Board of Examiners must make whatever decisions are necessary to establish who passed or failed their test. It is suggested that the Board of Examiners seek an isolated area, or room, where no one (other than the Examiners) can hear the discussions and decisions that are being made. Once the decisions are made, with the majority rule taking precedent, return to the testing area to inform the students as to who passed or failed.

NOTE: Students being tested are to be warned that any talking,
slouching, or unapproved adjournment during the testing period
could result in disqualification.

FURTHER NOTE: Realizing that testing procedures often require
tailoring, permission is hereby granted if such action is
necessary to improve the situation.

REMINDER: The above procedures are for FORMAL TESTS and observers are not permitted to witness such tests. Instructors, however, may wish to conduct INFORMAL TESTS of their own. In this case observers may be permitted if so elected.

FORMAL PROCEDURES TO BE OBSERVED DURING PROMOTION

RETURN - The Board of Examiners, upon their return, will now become the Presentation Committee.

ATTENTION At this point it is the duty of the Chief Examiner to call the students to Attention. Upon his command, the students will snap to Attention and face the Presentation Committee as they re- enter the room.

COMMENTS General and specific comments will then be adressed to individuals or the group as a whole. Students will
then be told whether they passed or failed.

FRONT & CENTER Those individuals who did not pass the test will be asked to reassemble to the rear. Those who passed will be asked to move to the front and center themselves before the Presentation Committee. If the number of students who passed are of concern, it is recommended that two or more lines be formed to accommodate the group. If there is only enough to form one line, have the students remain where they are presently standing.

KNEEL The students will receive the command to kneel before the Presentation Committee.

NEW BELT The new belt will then be placed on the floor in front of, and parallel to the student.

OLD BELT The students will then be commanded to take off their old belt. They are to neatly fold their old belt and place it
vertically and to the left of their new belt so that when the left
end of the new belt touches the bottom end of the old belt, they
form the letter "L". They will then be instructed as to the significance of this belt formation.

THE TOUCH From the students' kneeling position, command them to bow, and touch their foreheads to the top and flat side
of their new belt. Have them remain in this position for at least six (6) seconds before returning to their kneeling, upright position. They will again be instructed as to the significance of this formality.

NEW BELT The students who have passed will then put on their new belt and will adjust the knot on their belt so that it is
positioned properly.

RISE Upon the command rise, the students will then snap into an
Attention Stance.

TRAINING HORSE - When commanded, the students will then drop into a Training Horse with their fists clenched and on their hips.

INITIATION The Chief Examiner and the Instructor(s) will then
initiate the students, as well as explain the reason for the
initiation.

ATTENTION The passing group will then be commanded to come to Attention.

LINE UP The entire group (whether they passed or failed) will then be commanded to again return back to their original formation when first tested and line up in an orderly manner.

COMMENTS Final comments will be addressed to the students.

COMMITTEE - At this point the Presentation Committee will also stand and form a line facing the students. The highest ranking belt will stand to the extreme left (Committee's point of view) and all others (highest to the least) to his right.

SALUTE & HANDSHAKE All students will then be commanded to execute a Humble Salute and shake the hand of each Committee member, starting from the highest to the least ranking black belt. (From the student's point of view, they will start at the right and work their way to the left.) The first student to start this procedure will be the student with the highest rank. All others are to follow in the order of their succeeding rank.

Congratulations are in order if committeemen wish to do so.

JOIN - When the Senior Student salutes and shakes the hand of the last Presentation member, he and the remaining students are to join the line and in turn salute, and shake the hands of each of the remaining students. Students may also congratulate each other if the wish to do so.

MEDITATE The entire group will then be asked to Meditate.

ATTENTION They will then be commanded to come to Attention.

SALUTATION All will then be commanded to execute a Full Salutation.

BOW The final formal command will be to execute the concluding bow.

DISMISS All will then be dismissed.

NOTE: All students will be required to pick up their belt (if they
have not already done so) and clean up the testing area.

REMINDER: Observers are not permitted to witness the FORMAL TEST. They may, however, be allowed to witness the promotion.

PRESENTATION OF RANK CEREMONY

When you are commanded to take off your old belt from your kneeling position, you will be required to neatly fold your old belt and place it vertically and to the left of your new belt. When properly positioned the left end of your new belt should touch the bottom end of your old belt so that the letter "L" is formed. (See illustration.) You will then be informed that this "L" shaped belt formation has four significant meanings -- LIE, LONGEVITY, LOYALTY, and LOTS & LOTS. The following will then be read to give you an indepth understanding of the significance of these terms:

1. If the "L" formed before you stands for a LIE, a LIE that you
are not deserving of your new rank, then you are not to
accept it. However, if you feel that you have earned it,
knowing with assurance that it is not being given to you as a
gift, you may then accept it.
2. If receiving your new rank is not a LIE then "L" can take on
its second meaning -- LONGEVITY or your ability to prolong
your life. LONGEVITY can only come about if your knowledge of
Kenpo is internalized to a point of spontaneous and
successful application. If receiving your new rank is a LIE,
then LONGEVITY will be short lived.
3. "L" also refers to LOYALTY. Whether it be to your instructor,
association, or country, LOYALTY cultivates integrity and
respect.
4. The statement, "One becomes humble when he comes to the
realization that what he knows is very little.", is an
introduction to the meaning of the fourth "L". In this case
"L" stands for LOTS and LOTS. That is, no matter how good
you become there is still LOTS and LOTS to learn and perfect.

From your kneeling position, you will be commanded to bow and touch your forehead to the top and flat side of your new belt. You will remain in this position for approximately five (5) seconds before being asked to return to your kneeling position. The
significance of this formality is as follows (read):

1. At the moment your forehead touches your new belt you are to
mentally transfer your previous knowledge to your new rank
and to establish room for greater knowledge yet to come. You
are to also ponder on the following:

a. Fully understand your new roll as a senior student.
b Become a competent example among your fellow students.
c. Create rapport among them.
d. Encourage, and assist them whenever possible.
e. Avoid taking advantage of them.
f. In no way subject them to ridicule and suppression.

While still kneeling the following will then be read to those being promoted:

As you are promoted to your next rank, do you solemnly pledge to use the art of Kenpo solely for purposes of defense and never for aggression? (Wait for response.) Will you strive to impart an attitude of respect and appreciation for the art of Kenpo, and an understanding of what Kenpo truly entails? (Wait for response.) Will you endeavor to refrain or sanction the use of Kenpo for destructive or harmful designs? (Wait for response.) Do you make these promises solemnly and on your honor? (Wait for response.)

As long as you continue to keep this oath inviolate, may it be granted that you enjoy the life and practice of Kenpo, and forever be respected by your associates. However, should you trespass and violate this oath, it is hoped that the reverse will not be your lot.

Let us now recite the Kenpo Creed:

"I come to you with only Karate, empty hands. I have no weapons, but should I be forced to defend myself, my principles, or my honor; should it be a matter of life or death, of right or wrong; then here are my weapons, Karate, my empty hands."

By the authority granted under the constitution of the governing body of the Organization, we do hereby grant you your new and respective rank(s).

The student(s) who have passed will then put on his/her (their) new belt and will adjust the knot on his/her (their) belt so that it is positioned as required -- left side for males and right side for females.

The following will then be read:

Any dishonor to this school, the Orginization, or to any of its members can bring immediate and automatic revocation of rank and honor. As symbolized in our association patch, the bottom which forms the shape of an ax represents the executioner. In the event a member is influenced by evil ideas and thoughts contrary to our philosophy, or shames the Organization, he is to be cut off, never to co-exist with us again. (Display illustration of ax.)

Those who have been promoted will then be asked to stand in a horse stance with hands clenched and cocked at the waist. At this stage all will be informed of the next part of the ceremony -- the BIRTH OF PAIN. The following will then be read or extemporaneously discussed:

The earning of your new rank can be compared to the birth of a new child. For those of you who have been advanced from one color belt to another, the birth of your new rank is obvious. On the other hand for those of you who have received tips within the rank of Brown or Black, your new rank, although not as obvious, is indeed significant. Therefore, comparable to a female who goes through labor pains during the birth of her new child you too will be symbolically experiencing the birth of pain regarding your new rank. This experience is obtained through the execution of a friendly kick as a reminder that the new rank you have received did not come easy. Accordingly rank should not come easy for those you teach. Make every effort to make them work for their rank as you have. The birth of pain is a reminder that your students should earn and not be given new rank.

There you go...........


:asian:

Why do we have right handed fighters train from a left stance predominantly (dominant hand at the rear) whilst many styles such as Kung Fu seem to have their fighters use stances such that their dominant hand is their lead hand?

Also, I'm right handed and left legged, is this rare/freakish/a problem?

Ian.

Originally posted by Kirk

If a train left New York at noon going to Los Angeles, and at
the same time on the same track a train is leaving Los Angeles
and headed for New York, both trains are going a speed of 98
miles per hour .. at what time will the emminent collision happen?

:rofl:

well, Kirk, since there are at least six different routes from New York to LA, you'd have to know which track they're on, or at least the number of miles they're travelling....

also, 98 mph is a little unreasonable for trains... I think metrolinks average about 65 or so, and they go faster than amtracks.

Originally posted by satans.barber
Why do we have right handed fighters train from a left stance predominantly (dominant hand at the rear) whilst many styles such as Kung Fu seem to have their fighters use stances such that their dominant hand is their lead hand?

Also, I'm right handed and left legged, is this rare/freakish/a problem?Ian.


1)
Since the majority of humans are right handed.... we tend to fight from a left neutral bow (left leg forward/right rear) as a common comfortable starting position. This is due to the natural phenomenon of "shield and sword". We typically have a "sacrifice" (shield) hand and a "power" (sword) hand... The sacrifice hand is the left which naturally would be forward and the sword or power hand is in the rear. You can generate more power with the rear hand than the front, same is true with kicking. So the "left neutral bow" allows for the majority to be able to block or shield with their lead hand and deliver a powerful blow with the rear. Of course, since we train both sides in Kenpo, we actually become ambidextrous of sorts.

Personally I fight most often with the right lead because the mis-alignment of the majority is a benefit to me. My strong hand is forward and quicker leg for kicking and sweeping leads. For "point" tournaments where "knock out power" is un-necessary this is an advantage for me.

2)
As to your right handed - left legged personal realization, no you are not freakish, but blessed. LOL, whatever abilities you have you turn into usefulness in combat. Just continue to develop all your other abilities to match what you have "naturally" and you will become "gaseous" in action.

:asian:

I'm blessed with being ambidextrous, so I change my fighting stance around depending on who I'm fighting. I generally write with my right hand and paint with my left hand. However, when I'm in school and taking a lot of notes, if my writing hand gets tired, i just switch. Drives my teachers batty. I think a lot of it may be growing up in the computer/vid game age. you have to use both hands fairly equally to do well at stuff like that. Also, I think I was probably born left handed, and my mom tried to switch me. I remember her taking things out of my left hand and putting them in my right, but I think she did me a favor. Now I can write with either hand, paint with either hand, play a guitar left or right handed, switch hit in softball, and fight comfortably with either hand lead. I fence left handed because the person who taught me was a lefty, tho. It is very convenient when you do something silly like sprain a wrist, which I do more often than i'd like to admit. I am decidedly right footed though.

Mr. Conatser,

Just a note to let you know how much I am enjoying the Q&A string. I am surprised that more people are not asking about your relationship with Mr. Parker.

How long were you doing Chinese Kenpo before you switched to EPAKK? What rank did you obtain and did you continue the Tracy derivation NCKKA techniques for a while? Following that when did you start with American Kenpo, then end up as Mr. Parker's shadow at seminars? Then doing seminars on your own as an intro to SGM Parker? (I know a lot of this is in The Journey, but I wanted to hear/read more if you feel like sharing.)

By the way, I have a picture up in the school of you, Mr. Parker, and a bunch of Mr. Duffy's senior students at the time. It had to be at one of the early seminars in Austin (it has to be pre-1986, because I was still a Brown Belt.)

Answer as little or as much as you want. I can keep my questions more Applied Kenpo oriented if that is what you intended for this string?

:asian:
Oos,
-Michael
UKS-Texas

Originally posted by Michael Billings Mr. Conatser,
Just a note to let you know how much I am enjoying the Q&A string. I am surprised that more people are not asking about your relationship with Mr. Parker.


I'm glad to hear you are enjoying the string. I didn't know if anyone was interested in asking questions or not so I thought I'd try it. The feedback is good to determine what is wanted or not.


How long were you doing Chinese Kenpo before you switched to EPAKK? What rank did you obtain and did you continue the Tracy derivation NCKKA techniques for a while?


For 7 1/2 years I was a member of the N.C.K.K.A., and achieved my 1st Black in 4 1/2 years under Lonny Coots, then studied with his instructor for a couple of years and received my 2nd Black (lol was also demoted for one year back to 1st after being very vocal on some issue) oppss..... :( I continued to use the techniques that I had been taught and was in process of "Parkerizing" them when I got the opportunity to study directly with Mr. Parker. Once with Mr. Parker, I dropped the outdated technique curriculum and learned his syllabus completely.


Following that when did you start with American Kenpo, then end up as Mr. Parker's shadow at seminars?


I started with Mr. Parker in 1978. I don't think I was ever his shadow......... but WAS asked on numerous occasions if I were his son (I was with him every chance I could and I always loved to wear Hawaiian shirts of which he gave me one once in a while). I would call him and ask him what his schedule was so I could schedule him into Phoenix and where else he was going to be at and often times I flew to where he was to attend and assist him.


Then doing seminars on your own as an intro to SGM Parker?


Eventually I started doing seminars as well, for my close friends and others like Brian Duffy, who eventually became a student of Mr. Parker as well.


By the way, I have a picture up in the school of you, Mr. Parker, and a bunch of Mr. Duffy's senior students at the time. It had to be at one of the early seminars in Austin (it has to be pre-1986, because I was still a Brown Belt.)

Answer as little or as much as you want. I can keep my questions more Applied Kenpo oriented if that is what you intended for this string? :asian: Oos,-MichaelUKS-Texas


It says Q & A........ so ask what you want. If I can't or don't want to answer a question for whatever reason that is always my option. So fire away!
:rofl:
:asian:

Originally posted by satans.barber

Why do we have right handed fighters train from a left stance predominantly (dominant hand at the rear) whilst many styles such as Kung Fu seem to have their fighters use stances such that their dominant hand is their lead hand?

Also, I'm right handed and left legged, is this rare/freakish/a problem?

Ian.

Well you have company, I fight the same way. I'm right handed but kick left legged. I think it's cause I idolized Bill Wallace as a kid.

I like having my right hand back because it's my power hand, like a boxer.


:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



It says Q & A........ so ask what you want. If I can't or don't want to answer a question for whatever reason that is always my option. So fire away!
:rofl:
:asian:


I really respect the fact that you mentioned that you were demoted one rank (which you had mentioned to me before). The fact that you hung in there is one thing, but the fact that you don't try to hide it shows a lot about your character. And shows us youngsters that even the best have "things" that occur early in their career.

jb:asian:

... and no sarcasm intended. I have nothing but envy for the time you had with Mr. Parker ... but then I am glad there are people like you around to pass on, not only the knowledge, but the humor and intensity that was also his.

OOS,
-Michael
UKS-Texas
PS - you coming to town in late June?
:D

Originally posted by jbkenpo
I really respect the fact that you mentioned that you were demoted one rank (which you had mentioned to me before). The fact that you hung in there is one thing, but the fact that you don't try to hide it shows a lot about your character. And shows us youngsters that even the best have "things" that occur early in their career.
jb:asian:

Well thank you Jason...... it was not a "fun" year of my life..... in addition to that I was also "banned" from fighting for 3 months because while competing in the first MONEY tournament in Arizona, (and I was smoken at that time as a competitor) a competitor hit me square in the nose and made my nose immediately bleed! I was so furious (lack of personal control) that I grabbed the guy and started pounding him!!!!

Well they disqualified him for excessive contact....... but Mr. Hot Head got disqualified also for unsportsmanlike conduct. (hangs head):shrug: but I came out of that ......... a forms competitor..... since I couldn't compete in sparring...... I did forms and weapons... and placed nearly every tournament until I was able to fight again!:rofl:

Now I don't advocate you breaking the rules but I do wish everyone to make the best out of the hand you are delt with. What else can I say?!!

Again, thank you for the feedback.
:asian:

Now I understand why Mr. C laughed at me when I told him about me getting my 1st Black taken away from me and not being allowed to wear a belt at all for a couple of years! (major lack of self-control). I laugh about it now, it wasn't so funny then. About the left hand-right hand issue. I was born left handed, but in the mid-70's in southern Virginia, teachers were still taking pencils out of the left hand and rapping it with a ruler until you learned to write right handed. That continued until I shattered my right hand (another lack of control issue at a young age). I rediscovered my left hand and came to rely on it almost exclusively....until I severed the arm to the bone and almost lost it in 95. I rediscovered my right hand. I still write predominantly right handed but am ambi in most other matters. I fight left hand back, right foot forward. After I had my right knee reconstructed in 96, my right leg wouldn't hold me well when I kicked, so my right leg became my predominant leg, which was a really good thing since I am a front leg kicker.

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Well thank you Jason...... it was not a "fun" year of my life..... in addition to that I was also "banned" from fighting for 3 months because while competing in the first MONEY tournament in Arizona, (and I was smoken at that time as a competitor) a competitor hit me square in the nose and made my nose immediately bleed! I was so furious (lack of personal control) that I grabbed the guy and started pounding him!!!!

Well they disqualified him for excessive contact....... but Mr. Hot Head got disqualified also for unsportsmanlike conduct. (hangs head):shrug: but I came out of that ......... a forms competitor..... since I couldn't compete in sparring...... I did forms and weapons... and placed nearly every tournament until I was able to fight again!:rofl:

Now I don't advocate you breaking the rules but I do wish everyone to make the best out of the hand you are delt with. What else can I say?!!

Again, thank you for the feedback.
:asian:

Okay, so who took away your rank? Mr Parker??? This I gotta
hear! Did he chew you a new one?

Thank you for your stories, and making this an exceptional thread to read and reread. Your wisdom and knowledge is greatly appreciated.
Salute,
Jason Farnsworth

Originally posted by Kirk
Okay, so who took away your rank? Mr Parker??? This I gotta
hear! Did he chew you a new one?

No, I was studying under Gary L. Swan at the time in Universal City Texas. He demoted me for a year. Then for my good behavior and continued study, it was given back.

:asian:

Originally posted by jfarnsworth
Thank you for your stories, and making this an exceptional thread to read and reread. Your wisdom and knowledge is greatly appreciated. Salute,Jason Farnsworth


Thank You Jason for the feedback. I'm glad you are enjoying the string.
Keep the good questions coming!

:asian:

Master key techs.?

1.Thundering hammers

2.5 swords

3. lone kimono

4. shielding hammer

5.locked wing

6. thrusting salute

7. parting wings

8.hooking wings

9. intellectual departure? (this one is sometimes left out of peoples curriculum now but where else does this block occur?)

10.shield and sword or repeating mace.

is this close or way off base? too litte or too many? wrong ones?


2nd question--
in or out of kenpo who are some people you have seen that just made you stop and think dang that person is really good, and what made you think that.

3rd

who has hit you the hardest in your life?

Originally posted by Kirk



Okay, so who took away your rank? Mr Parker??? This I gotta
hear! Did he chew you a new one?

It's not my place, but I will say it wasn't Mr. Parker!!!! and "chew you a new one" isnt' really the appropriate way to approach a time which he just said wasn't an easy time for him.

We're here to learn, not just rehash old feelings. That line of questioning does nothing positive. Let's have some courtesy and think about how you would feel if the question was asked of you in the same manner.


jb:asian:

Originally posted by jbkenpo


Let's have some courtesy and think about how you would feel if the question was asked of you in the same manner.


I always do that ... but apologies nonetheless.

Thanks Jason, but I took no offense to Kirks question.... that was a long time ago and I learned the lesson..... thank you for watching out for my feelings......... you must feel close to me to feel that way....... lol.... I appreciate it!~ (but you revealed your inner feelings luke)

:asian:

Originally posted by eternalwhitebelt
Master key techs.?

1.Thundering hammers
2.5 swords
3. lone kimono
4. shielding hammer
5.locked wing
6. thrusting salute
7. parting wings
8.hooking wings
9. intellectual departure? (this one is sometimes left out of peoples curriculum now but where else does this block occur?)
10.shield and sword or repeating mace.

is this close or way off base? too little or too many? wrong ones?


This is the Corrected List..........

1. Thundering hammers
2. 5 swords
3. Lone kimono
4. Shielding hammer
5. Repeating Mace
6. Locked Wing
7. Intellectual Departure*
8. Thrusting salute
9. Parting Wings
10. Hooking Wings

* Intellectual departure? (this one is sometimes left out of peoples curriculum now but where else does this block occur?
"if you mean this block include"... ID is taught in 1st Black for me.

Intellectual Departure
Circle of Doom
Rotating Destruction
Unfolding the Dark
Encounter with Danger


2nd question--
In or out of kenpo who are some people you have seen that just made you stop and think dang that person is really good, and what made you think that.


Man, that is hard, there are so many that I have seen, here is a partial list (I'm sure I will leave of someone).....

Steve LaBounty- total martial artist, Tom Kelly - tough teacher, Skip Hancock - the thinker, John Sepulveda - well rounded, Diane Tanaka - best female in Kenpo, Huk Planas - engineer,
Ralph Castellanos - meanest look and ability to back it up, Bob Liles - tough, Tom Riskas- cerebral giant, Ray Sua- great competitor, Byong Yu- smooth competitor, Joe Lewis-legendary fighter point/full contact, Mike Stone- most focused, Bill Wallace- best with the least (one leg that is difficult to get around, Steve Sanders- the fastest, Eric Lee-forms extraordinaire, Anthony Chan-best wu shu, Cynthia Rothrock- best female competitor (forms), Paulie Zink-flexibility king and lives his art like a monkey, Ark Wong- incredible Kung Fu master, Ted Tabura-most sharing and helpful, Benny Urquidez-king of no-fear attitude, Wally Jay-strongest controller and hand shaker, Robert Trias-great pioneer,
Tom Schlessinger-most logical for a Japanese stylist, Robert Haliberton-largest studio and largest of group of great fighters in one studio, Roy Kurban- king of toppling against all odds, George Chung-most talented competitor, & Ron Marchini- slyest fighter.



3rd Question--
who has hit you the hardest in your life?
[/B][/QUOTE]

This is a much easier question, but only based upon those that I have been around there are several out there that I have not had the opportunity to feel as of yet.... but I know they are out there!!!!!!! .... Ed Parker, Tom Kelly, Steve LaBounty, & Joe Lewis.

:asian:

GD7,
I know Elvis and his wife did alot of private lesson training with Ed Parker. Did you at any time get to meet or train with Elvis or his wife. Also to let you know I don't do any of the Parker Styles of Kenpo. My style is more Okinawan Kempo. They seem close in what they do but there are some different things also. I like to compare Kenpo notes / techniques with Kempo notes / techniques. This is the reason for asking about Cross of Destruction.
Bob:asian:

Originally posted by Kempojujutsu
GD7,
I know Elvis and his wife did alot of private lesson training with Ed Parker. Did you at any time get to meet or train with Elvis or his wife. Also to let you know I don't do any of the Parker Styles of Kenpo. My style is more Okinawan Kempo. They seem close in what they do but there are some different things also. I like to compare Kenpo notes / techniques with Kempo notes / techniques. This is the reason for asking about Cross of Destruction.
Bob:asian:

No, I foolishly declined to go over to the Hilton one time when invited because I said ahhhh not now ....... next time..... and shortly there after there was no next time.

Tom Kelly was the one who taught Priscilla for a short period of time until she walked in with a black uniform...... and he told her to change to a white...... black was only for browns and black belts. She said..."you must not know who I am.... I'm Elvis wife"! Mr. Kelly being of course the most diplomatic person on the planet said I don't care who the hell you are these are the rules..... she walked out and soon found Mike Stone while checking out a Chuck Norris Studio. The rest was history.

I was sitting next to her in Las Vegas at Mike Stones 4 season tournament while at the head table in the early 70's.

Well Keep on a studying ..... were cousins......LOL
:asian:

What are some of your biggest pet peeves in EPAK today?

This one, I hope I'm not out of line here, but .... have you
ever seen Mr Parker in any physical altercations?

Why do the extensions start at Clutching Feathers and not with Delayed Sword?

I'm currious why none were put in for the 10 yellow belt techniques.


:asian:

Maybe no extentions as it was an addition later to the system? There is a large debate regarding the origins of the yellow belt and it's purpose. I've heard a few and most seem to have a similar thread through them.

The one I made up is that most students peed themselves when guys like Dennis came at them the first time on the floor.

It's not true but it's funny.

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

Thanks Jason, but I took no offense to Kirks question.... that was a long time ago and I learned the lesson..... thank you for watching out for my feelings......... you must feel close to me to feel that way....... lol.... I appreciate it!~ (but you revealed your inner feelings luke)

:asian:

Yeah,

Your ok...lol

Now I got Kirk thinking I'm a hard*ss when that is the further thing from the truth...

jb:asian:

Originally posted by jbkenpo

Now I got Kirk thinking I'm a hard*ss when that is the further thing from the truth...

Nah, no worries at all.

Originally posted by Kirk
What are some of your biggest pet peeves in EPAK today?


I think one of the biggest pep peeves I have is all the mis-information between the guys at the top. I think they all should work together to get to know and understand each other better so they can all work more or less together v.s. who is better or knows more than who.

"Rather than winning arguments ... I would like to see more agreements"!!

Many are trying to rewrite history and teach Kenpo as they want people to see it, rather than how and why it is like it was/is..... and enjoy all the differences and know why different people are the way they are and to acknowledge each others talents as such.


This one, I hope I'm not out of line here, but .... have you
ever seen Mr. Parker in any physical altercations?

No, but very close at the Internationals one year this fighter named "choo choo" was about to get his ........ handed to him. Mr. Parker came flying down the stage and the entire arena was around this one ring with he and Mr. Parker in the middle...... I was right behind Mr. Parker, Man was that exciting!! But it didn't come to pass. Thank goodness......... The guy smartly backed down......:rofl:

:asian:

Sir I don't understand what was corrected concerning the list. Was it the order? Does that matter? If so why? Thank you very much for answering these questions. Another question I have is your response concering Intellectual departure. I understand that circle of doom, rotating destruction, unfolding the dark, and encounter with danger have been formaulated from this but why is it missing from so many peoples curriculum if it is a master key tech.?

I just found this Thread. This forum/site is like a City! I may never see it all.

I heard last year that there were 9 Master key moves. I have not heard anything else about what or how many Master Key's there are until now.

Are there Master Key moves, or techniques or both?

Is that list with Intellectual Departure, Circle of Doom... a Family Grouping? I have never had Intellectual Departure, but I know Circle of Doom and Rotating Destruction. I was told that Intellectual Departure was removed from the Yellow Belt Curriculum because it was too hard for beginners to get. I was told that Mr. Parker had it in there and he is the one that also took it out.

Truly this is an Excellent Thread.
:cool:

Sir,

Can you tell the story of why some techniques have extensions/how they are grouped.

I mean that I have heard that there are no extensions for the Brown Belt Techniques because of the way the original techniques were grouped.

I heard that Mr. Kelly had orginally intended/developed the Brown Belt material for 1st-3rd Black so that the extensions began right after Green but that someone then later re-ordered these charts after Mr. Kelly put them together. I also heard that Mr. Kelly was not pleased with this.

I hope this is a worthy question for this thread.
:asian:

Sir,

Is there anyone out there who moves a lot like Mr. Parker so that by seeing them in action we may have a better understanding of how Mr. Parker looked in action?

If Mr. Parker doesn't have a "twin" then who would you say is closest? Or is there no one because Mr. Parker encouraged everyone to tailor the art to themselves?

BTW, you having Mr. Kelly do a technique on you at Mr. Duffy's camp last year was maybe the coolest thing I've ever seen. Those films of the Internationals that we all watched at breakfast were kind of hard to see from my table.
:asian:

Originally posted by Michael Billings

...I have nothing but envy for the time you had with Mr. Parker...

I had always hoped to study with Mr. Parker myself and this reminds me of a story.

I was told by one of the Black Belts at my studio around 1986 that Mr. Parker did not teach anymore and/or that he only did private lessons (which were undoubtedly prohibitively expensive).

Years later I finally switched to a first generation student of Mr. Parker and began learning EPAK.

I wish I had been able to study/see/visit Mr. Parker more often. The only 2 times I knew he was in Texas, I was there. I found out later from Mr. Duffy that Mr. Parker had been in or near Texas perhaps twice/year from perhaps 1985-1990. :mad: :cuss:

I want to stress that having this type of access to Mr. Conatser whether in person or via the internet is a gift and an opportunity that should not be taken for granted. I am very greatful to have fallen in with the group that I'm with.
:)

I second that. I've learned a lot from you, GD.

as far as I'm concerned will not be able to get enough thank you's from everyone on this website. I am very grateful Mr. C. thinks enough of each individual person that he answers the questions posted here. Well here's 1 more. Thank you Mr. Conatser for sharing your knowledge and time with the rest of us that can't always get to Scottsdale.
Salute,
Jason Farnsworth

Slow down, give the guy a chance to catch his breath and answer one or two of your questions before you scare him off!!

Yea, like that could happen ... NOT! But seriously, you may want to slow it down. I am 90% sure Mr. Duffy knows it or has seen it, so you may want to ask him. If not, the next time I see you I will teach you Intellectual Departure (or you can read it on my web site.) I know "Inquiring minds, just want to know."

Oos,
-Michael
UKS-Texas

Originally posted by cdhall

I was told that Intellectual Departure was removed from the Yellow Belt Curriculum because it was too hard for beginners to get. I was told that Mr. Parker had it in there and he is the one that also took it out.

It's hard to learn, unless taught well! Ask Huk Planas about it, and he'll give you tons of good info and make it easy to learn (or so it seemed when he covered it in a seminar I was at). Maybe it's just because we did it a thousand times. Then, Mr. Trejo spent the next hour showing us how to use it effectively in sparring. Quite a good day for learning Int Dep!

The problem I see with the tech is that it breaks a rule -- in it you turn your back to the opponent. Granted, you are doing a back kick at the time, but still you go from facing them to looking over your shoulder at them, then back to facing them.

But, once you learn it, you can see how it teaches a number of different concepts well, like one way to deal with a starting arm position that limits your defensive options, why we don't normally turn our backs, maintaining momentum while changing directions, one good way to surprise a sparring partner, and completing one of those _categories_ that so many people get irritated about. And other stuff. I'm sure when I'm a more advanced student I'll be able to pull more lessons to mind when I think of Int Dep.

In all, the tech has good and bad. I'm of a mind to teach it, so people can learn from it, even if it breaks rules as a self-defense tech (after all, it ain't the only one!).

Originally posted by eternalwhitebelt
Sir I don't understand what was corrected concerning the list. Was it the order? Does that matter? If so why? Thank you very much for answering these questions. Another question I have is your response concering Intellectual departure. I understand that circle of doom, rotating destruction, unfolding the dark, and encounter with danger have been formaulated from this but why is it missing from so many peoples curriculum if it is a master key tech.?

I just re-stated the main list.... most I believe were correct.
The Order is not really important.

On a revision of the Yellow Belt Techniques "Intellectual Departure" was taken off of the Yellow belt due to its sophisticated content and the decision was made to insert a simpler technique (Sword and Hammer) in its place for that level. It was never dropped out of the system but not inserted anywhere else in any particular Belt level either, (yes, confusing I know, along with darting leaves, pinning wing, controlled wing and others) Mr. Parker had a plan in mind but we will never know what or where he was eventually going to put or do with them. So we just keep them on our Master List of Techniques and I teach it at Brown or Black as an additional uncharted technique.
:asian:

Originally posted by Klondike93
Why do the extensions start at Clutching Feathers and not with Delayed Sword?
I'm currious why none were put in for the 10 yellow belt techniques.
:asian:


The Yellow Belt Techniques were designed to be embryonic and easy to introduce Kenpo to the beginner. As such they were by design classified as "stand alone" techniques for a specific reason.

As Mr. Parker logically re-adjusted the rest of the curriculum he added the extensions to the Orange Belt thru Green and expanded the system up to 3rd Black.

I use the Yellow Belt Techniques as a drill for learning how to create Extensions for my Black Belts. Since there are no prior Extensions for these techniques Everyone can experiment and develop them as an exercise...... fun stuff.

:asian:

Originally posted by GouRonin
The one I made up is that most students peed themselves when guys like Dennis came at them the first time on the floor. It's not true but it's funny.


Now you are going to give people the wrong impression of me!! You didn't pee the 1st time I came at you (Your friend did and will again If I ever see him again) :rofl:

When I saw you ....... you hugged me!

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Well Bob,

Each technique/drill is taught for a reason, and they are only different possibilities that one may use to escape from a given attack. It certainly is not the only technique you could use and can be modified via knowledge of your "kenpo tools", i.e., you could stomp the instep to loosen up the grip so as to make it easier to escape thru the knowledgeable use of the equation formula's prefix.

I don't know exactly how clearly it was explained to you. There are several interpretations ..... here is an idea also...... you don't even need the hands to escape this hold..... you step off to your left and dip your head (as is done in the base explanation) and turn counter clockwise (without the hand grabs) and raise up. That alone can release the grip. From there you can left reverse sword hand to the groin or run.....

There are many, many different understandings of each technique to explore ask your instructor and keep working and studying the system ......... Your questions will lead you to the truth and knowledge.

:asian:

A little like "Dancer" huh?

First I want to say that your contributions to this forum has been great benefit to many my self included. Your generous nature in sharing your fast knowledge is very refreshing and appreciated.

You've talked about Master Key Techniques.
How about discussing techniques containing Master Key Moves that are not Master Key Techniques.

Cecil Jackson

I notice you nave "Club Set 1" as a black belt requirement. Club set is not in the material I'm studying.

Is this an "official" requirement of the "16" system or is it a requirement of yours?

Is there any documentation, written of video available on it's performance?

Cecil Jackson

Originally posted by C.E.Jackson
A little like "Dancer" huh?


Yes, that is the Tracy equivalent technique

:asian:

Yesterday I was practicing my orange ext.'s and noticed that during Obscure Wing has the same footwork as form 5 does with Leap Of Death. When executing O.W. you take the opponent down face up and while executing L.O.D. the opponent is face down. Once the attacker is down is where the footwork ext. became the same. Is there a connection between the two with the new material for the next level?? OR does this happen to be a coincodence in material? Thanks.
Jason Farnsworth

Originally posted by C.E.Jackson
I notice you nave "Club Set 1" as a black belt requirement. Club set is not in the material I'm studying.
Is this an "official" requirement of the "16" system or is it a requirement of yours?
Is there any documentation, written of video Available on it's performance?
Cecil Jackson


Yes, it is an official Ed Parker requirement (at least for my studio prior to his passing). I usually don't post optional things that I may require for my students only the basics.

I did post the set on KenpoNet I think they have it stored in "the flame". I also posted it here as well some time ago you'd have to go to the archives.

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Yes, it is an official Ed Parker requirement (at least for my studio prior to his passing). I usually don't post optional things that I may require for my students only the basics.

I did post the set on KenpoNet I think they have it stored in "the flame". I also posted it here as well some time ago you'd have to go to the archives.

:asian:

I could'nt find it in the archives here, but I did find it in kenponet. Thanks.

Also I found in kenponet the lock flows you guys were talking about a few days ago. I knew I'd seen them somewhere!

CJ

Originally posted by jfarnsworth
Yesterday I was practicing my orange ext.'s and noticed that during Obscure Wing has the same footwork as form 5 does with Leap Of Death. When executing O.W. you take the opponent down face up and while executing L.O.D. the opponent is face down. Once the attacker is down is where the footwork ext. became the same. Is there a connection between the two with the new material for the next level?? OR does this happen to be a coincidence in material? Thanks.
Jason Farnsworth

Man, you guys must have found the "smart pills" as Mr. Parker would say?!! lol..... keep your eyes open and you will see more of what you found!

Good job
:asian:

Now, maybe you undusted a bit better the story of the Full Blooded Chinese Man by the name of Tim O'Riley!:rofl:

To me, that's so tough to understand! My instructor says things
like that all the time, "this is just a variation of suchnsuch
technique, see?" as he does them both .. sometimes I got "OHH!"
and other times, I'm still like "huh?". I can never see that stuff
in the techs I learn. It's a bit of a bummer!

Originally posted by Kirk

To me, that's so tough to understand! My instructor says things
like that all the time, "this is just a variation of suchnsuch
technique, see?" as he does them both .. sometimes I got "OHH!"
and other times, I'm still like "huh?". I can never see that stuff
in the techs I learn. It's a bit of a bummer!

Yeah, I feel that way, too. If it helps any, some connections I went "huh?" about as a yellow belt I go "Ohh!" about now. It could be I understand better. Or, it could be that finding connections in Kenpo is like interpreting the Bible -- anything you want to be there is there, but who, if anyone, put it there?

Two conflicting ideas:
1) Ed Parker was a genius, making a thourough martial system with intricate detail and brilliant discoveries, which I will spend a lifetime figuring out, and
2) Humans have infinite capacity for self-deceit.

Can I trust the connections I find, or am I stretching too far to find the info? In the end, the ultimate master key technique, the one that covers them all, is "stop the bad guy". Delayed Sword alone holds most of the system that I've learned so far -- stop the attack, then counter multiple times.

Or maybe the only thing that really counts is that Kenpo gives me a logical way to look for stuff, making my discoveries as valid as anyone else's, whether the information was put there by Mr. Parker or not. If so, any connection I find is valid, providing I found it through logic. After all, that's how Mr. Parker found everything out in the first place, right?

Originally posted by Scott Bonner
Or maybe the only thing that really counts is that Kenpo gives me a logical way to look for stuff, making my discoveries as valid as anyone else's, whether the information was put there by Mr. Parker or not.

If so, any connection I find is valid, providing I found it through logic. After all, that's how Mr. Parker found everything out in the first place, right?

Our Awesome System [EPAK if taught correctly] first teaches us all the basics to motion, then teaches the awareness of your body actions and how to control them, then examines potential attacks and conditions of today's environment and offers a multitude of possible responses to form a knowledge base from which to logically draw from if ever a physical encounter occurs.

All "connections" or discoveries, parallels, tips, unique, interesting points, tweaks, and so on are there to either be taught or ran upon........ You have to ask yourself a question..... was this system this way by ACCIDENT OR DESIGN? My answer is that ....... there is WAYYYYYYYYYY to much stuff that puzzles together for it to be by accident...... no go hunt and find!

From there it's all yours baby!

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Yes, that is the Tracy equivalent technique

:asian:

Bout time you gave me some credit!:soapbox:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Now you are going to give people the wrong impression of me!! You didn't pee the 1st time I came at you (Your friend did and will again If I ever see him again) :rofl:

When I saw you ....... you hugged me!

:asian:

I never got hugged like that! I got beaten , unmercifully, and was told to like it!:wah:

Originally posted by RCastillo
Bout time you gave me some credit!:soapbox:


Not quite..... it was taken from Ed Parker in the first place..... silly!

:)

:asian:

Originally posted by RCastillo
I never got hugged like that! I got beaten , unmercifully, and was told to like it!:wah:

Now STOP that! He never got picked up in a LIMO like YOU did ........ either!!
:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Now STOP that! He never got picked up in a LIMO like YOU did ........ either!!
:asian:

Hmmmmm, very true, and I'll be forever grateful for getting the "Elvis" treatment, but, was that Limo on the "Hot, Sheet?":eek:

if you keep it up you are going to be on the hot seat....... I have an egg warming up for you................:(

:rofl:

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

if you keep it up you are going to be on the hot seat....... I have an egg warming up for you................:(

:rofl:

:asian:

Ok, I'll go to the back of the class , and work on Short 1!:(

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Yes, that is the Tracy equivalent technique

:asian:

Originally posted by RCastillo



Bout time you gave me some credit!:soapbox:

These boards are so great for expanding your horizons. I always thought "Tracy" was used as a Qualifier. Not a compliment!
:rofl:
:D

CD....... how could you........

He's our friendly neighborhood Armadillo Man!!!

:rofl:

Originally posted by RCastillo



Bout time you gave me some credit!:soapbox:

Mr. Castillo,

You mentioned on your site that you were introduced to the Tracy's in 1976. How far did you get? I noticed you got your Black in 3 years (1993-1996) from Mr. Tracy in Kentucky, how was that experience?

jb:asian:

He was drunk!:rofl:

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

CD....... how could you........

He's our friendly neighborhood Armadillo Man!!!

:rofl:

I am the "Rodney Dangerfield" of Kenpo, no respect!:(

Originally posted by jbkenpo



Mr. Castillo,

You mentioned on your site that you were introduced to the Tracy's in 1976. How far did you get? I noticed you got your Black in 3 years (1993-1996) from Mr. Tracy in Kentucky, how was that experience?

jb:asian:

The first time, I got to Purple, them moved away, and was unable to find in any Kenpo in my new locale.

The second time I got back into it, I pretty much had to relearn nearly all the stuff again. The testing under Master Al was a pleasant expereince, about 3 hours straight. Luckily for me, I was so pumped, that I had few problems, if any. :asian:

Mr. Tracy fell asleep ........
:)

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

He was drunk!:rofl:

:asian:

I was not!:drinkbeer

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

Mr. Tracy fell asleep ........
:)

No way, he watched me like a Hawk! And I was so awesome that the Golden One would've stood up and clapped for me!:boing2:

Stay on target............. Stay on target.......
:xwing:

It's been said that all styles have weaknesses, what weakness does Kenpo have?

Originally posted by RCastillo
It's been said that all styles have weaknesses, what weakness does Kenpo have?

I believe one of the weaknesses of Kenpo is that the current updates have not been available to everybody over a period of time so we have many different ideas from different eras that all boil down to good Kenpo at that time...... however Ed Parker was one to always want to "keep current", but many left at various stages of the evolution and thus have missed out on much of his newer developments and adjustments. Today - slowly but surely many are realizing this and updating their material when they find good information.

:asian:

Originally posted by RCastillo


I am the "Rodney Dangerfield" of Kenpo, no respect!:(

I'm sorry Mr. Castillo. I have much respect for you. Since Mr. C brought you to camp, you must be most worthy of my respect and I assure you that you have it.

But aside from bashing on TKD (as I explained in another thread somewhere), bashing on Tracy Kenpo :shrug: is the next natural inclination of a trash-talking Kenpo student. Probably for reasons similar to what I described in the TKD post.

Oops. You study TKD and Tracy Kenpo. Man. I don't know how to get out of this one. :eek:

Seriously, I was very glad to meet you, sir and you seemed very nice and if you were not of high quality I don't think Mr. C would have brought you to camp. I'll try to earn a "feather" or something from you before October. I hope you are coming back. I take it this was the forum you and Mr. C were referring to when you said that you had "met" on the web? Many respects.
:asian:

Originally posted by cdhall



I'm sorry Mr. Castillo. I have much respect for you. Since Mr. C brought you to camp, you must be most worthy of my respect and I assure you that you have it.

But aside from bashing on TKD (as I explained in another thread somewhere), bashing on Tracy Kenpo :shrug: is the next natural inclination of a trash-talking Kenpo student. Probably for reasons similar to what I described in the TKD post.

Oops. You study TKD and Tracy Kenpo. Man. I don't know how to get out of this one. :eek:

Seriously, I was very glad to meet you, sir and you seemed very nice and if you were not of high quality I don't think Mr. C would have brought you to camp. I'll try to earn a "feather" or something from you before October. I hope you are coming back. I take it this was the forum you and Mr. C were referring to when you said that you had "met" on the web? Many respects.
:asian:

Thanks for your support, compliments. I hope to come back to the next one. I hope to have a few feathers myself from DC when October comes around!:asian:

I will be off the air for a while due to my body being transplanted to Las Vegas for Speakmans Kenpo Camp this weekend.

But Monday I will be back on the air.
:asian:

Sir, I am having a little trouble understanding the contour concept of threading.

Do you use the contour of your opponent's joint as a guide for your weapon to hit its target.. I.e. if your opponent has his arm partially chambered so that you use his elbow joint to guide a punch to the target.. doesn't seem plausible...

or

Do you use your own joint as the point of contact as you are guiding your natural weapon to its target? i.e. Your assailant grabs your lapel and you place your elbow on his arm and keep contact to guide your hand to his temple.

or

Is it something else. If so, what?

Thanks in advance,
Doug

Originally posted by Turner Sir, I am having a little trouble understanding the contour concept of threading.

Do you use the contour of your opponent's joint as a guide for your weapon to hit its target.. I.e. if your opponent has his arm partially chambered so that you use his elbow joint to guide a punch to the target.. doesn't seem plausible...

or

Do you use your own joint as the point of contact as you are guiding your natural weapon to its target? i.e. Your assailant grabs your lapel and you place your elbow on his arm and keep contact to guide your hand to his temple.

or

Is it something else. If so, what?

Thanks in advance,
Doug

Either
:asian:

Much appreciated, I guess I wasn't all that confused.

... now for one that really does confuse me...

The EPAK secret codes, rKtsKB5aP et. all.(Freestyle Techniques) I work with codes for a living but even with Infinate Insights vol. 5 explaining it, it's beyond me. I'm hoping it is just difficult because I'm making it difficult, but having it worded differently might help.

Thanks in advance,

Doug

Originally posted by Turner

Much appreciated, I guess I wasn't all that confused.

... now for one that really does confuse me...

The EPAK secret codes, rKtsKB5aP et. all.(Freestyle Techniques) I work with codes for a living but even with Infinate Insights vol. 5 explaining it, it's beyond me. I'm hoping it is just difficult because I'm making it difficult, but having it worded differently might help.

Thanks in advance,

Doug

These look confusing but are actually easy....... the ones you have above are out of the Purple Belt group

:asian:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Our Awesome System [EPAK if taught correctly] first teaches us all the basics to motion, then teaches the awareness of your body actions and how to control them, then examines potential attacks and conditions of today's environment and offers a multitude of possible responses to form a knowledge base from which to logically draw from if ever a physical encounter occurs.

All "connections" or discoveries, parallels, tips, unique, interesting points, tweaks, and so on are there to either be taught or ran upon........ You have to ask yourself a question..... was this system this way by ACCIDENT OR DESIGN? My answer is that ....... there is WAYYYYYYYYYY to much stuff that puzzles together for it to be by accident...... no go hunt and find!

From there it's all yours baby!

:asian:
Mr C and I have discussed jsut this pretty extensively. I learned so much form it that I decided to ude it as a teaching tool. Last night I had my students (mostly upper belts) break up into groups of 2 or 3 and pick any one of the yellow belt techniques (except Captured Twigs or Sword and Hammer) and tear it apart and analyze it. I gave them half an hour with it and then we discussed and disected it as a group. I think they were amazed at how little they actually understood the techniques until we did this.

1. The difference between:
a. Hopping
b. Jumping
c. Leaping

Leaping - Is it one foot leaving the floor, then the other; one lands, then the other as in Leaping Crane?

Hopping - Is it akin to a skip? Only one foot has contact with the floor, and you "hop" on it only; as in the gauging hop in Hopping Crane?

Jumping - Both feel leave the floor simultaneously and both land simultaneously? I get to this one by process of elimination only.

I have never been "taught" the difference, of course this is probably my own fault due to my not asking the right people at the right time. None-the-less, am I on the right track here?

Thanks,
-Michael

Originally posted by Michael Billings

1. The difference between:
a. Hopping
b. Jumping
c. Leaping
Leaping - Is it one foot leaving the floor, then the other; one lands, then the other as in Leaping Crane?
Hopping - Is it akin to a skip? Only one foot has contact with the floor, and you "hop" on it only; as in the gauging hop in Hopping Crane?
Jumping - Both feel leave the floor simultaneously and both land simultaneously? I get to this one by process of elimination only.
I have never been "taught" the difference, of course this is probably my own fault due to my not asking the right people at the right time. None-the-less, am I on the right track here?
Thanks,-Michael


Close but no cigar......

Hopping - Is one foot has contact with the floor (lets say the left foot), and you "hop" or leave the ground and land on the same (left foot).

Skip - is the same as hop except you "drag" the base foot along the ground, instead of leaving the ground.

Jump - is one foot leaving the ground (say cocking up your left foot - [right is on the ground] and jumping onto the other (left) foot with now the right leg cocked up as in Leaping Crane...... (should be Jumping Crane actually if based on the footwork).

Leap - Both feet leave the floor simultaneously and both land simultaneously as in Leap of Death.

:asian:

Muchos Gras,

Have fun at the Speakman's camp. I'll be thinking about yall. Give my regard to Sigung LaBounty and Sibok Kelly if they are there and any UKS guys you see, we know Bryan Hawkins won't be there, but some of the others may make it (Bob Liles?)

Oos,
-MB

Originally posted by Goldendragon7

I will be off the air for a while due to my body being transplanted to Las Vegas for Speakmans Kenpo Camp this weekend.

But Monday I will be back on the air.
:asian:

Can't wait to hear a report about it!

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



Close but no cigar......

Hopping - Is one foot has contact with the floor (lets say the left foot), and you "hop" or leave the ground and land on the same (left foot).

Skip - is the same as hop except you "drag" the base foot along the ground, instead of leaving the ground.

Jump - is one foot leaving the ground (say cocking up your left foot - [right is on the ground] and jumping onto the other (left) foot with now the right leg cocked up as in Leaping Crane...... (should be Jumping Crane actually if based on the footwork).

Leap - Both feet leave the floor simultaneously and both land simultaneously as in Leap of Death.

:asian:

Ugh, this stuff is gonna kill me! The reason I stopped studying
TKD is because I felt I was too big for all that jumping. The
jumping front snap kick was KILLING ME! I started in kenpo
because I was told that it was an art "for anyone". Now there's
gonna be MORE jumping? Oy, ve.

Originally posted by Kirk



Can't wait to hear a report about it!

Don't forget that I have a thread under "Organizations and Events" for this specific purpose.
http://www.martialtalk.com/showthread.php?threadid=2231&referrerid=391
:asian:

Not all American Kenpoists are stagnent. I was a seminar a while ago where they were discussing Zach Whitson's "Counter Point theory. I was very impressed.

I don't think you'll be doing any jumping like if you were in TKD.

Unless your instructor did some TKD and wants to incorporate some of the kicks into it.


:asian:

Hi Dennis

The "H" in for example B1aH. Do you for the last move-

1. do a lead outward hand palm heel to the shoulder to keep the opponent in check?

2. Do you do an lead hand, inward palm heel to the face?

Cheers Dominic.

PS. Thank you for your detailed answers:)

Originally posted by Dominic Jones
Hi Dennis
The "H" in for example B1aH.
Do you for the last move-
1. do a lead outward hand palm heel to the shoulder to keep the
opponent in check?
2. Do you do an lead hand, inward palm heel to the face?
Cheers Dominic.PS. Thank you for your detailed answers:)


Neither, I use a left inward (fingers out - horizontal) Heel Palm Jab to the body as my base technique. You could use it to the face, but if you did B1a you have already hit the face once...... so we try to vary targets.

:asian:

What is a "simple" definition of Kenpo for those that are unfamiliar with it as you try to explain it to them?:asian:

I was going to ask why is the sky blue, but I already know that answer. So my question is very simple what is more important to a practioner, Balance or Power? I already think I have the answer for this but I would love to see what some others think.

I would go with Balance. It would seem we would all have a certain degree of power. Some more, due to their mass and how they apply it. Others, based on their finnese(hope that's spelled right)will be able to generate it differently?

I would think, that if a person is Balanced, they will be able to use their attributes in a way that best fits them, and get the most out of it. One may also say that if that was true, we would be incomplete, but can we really be the "complete" artist/practitioner?

Anyway, Thanks for listening!
:asian:

Originally posted by Rob_Broad
What is more important to a practioner, Balance or Power?


A practitioner needs both! However, if I were to choose one before the other it would be to develop Balance. For without "Balance" you will always have limited power.

Good Balance is a product of practice and proper body alignment. When your body is aligned properly it is able to function (with time and practice) at maximum proficiency. Power will become automatic if desired and focused upon when good balance is not constantly interrupting your movements.

Ricardo...... one flight feather!!

:asian:

Originally posted by Rob_Broad

I was going to ask why is the sky blue, but I already know that answer. So my question is very simple what is more important to a practioner, Balance or Power? I already think I have the answer for this but I would love to see what some others think.

Interesting inquiry- they work together and independently. If you look at power as being typed by 3 (intermittent, dynamic, and passive) passive doesn't require balance but (depending on circumstance) may rely heavily on- say momentum and the impact of strike to restore balance. Balance with rotation gets power... I don't teach power. Accuracy is more important than raw power along with timing. Power is too far down the list to compare with balance and real power is a cummulative effect anyways.


:D

Originally posted by RCastillo

What is a "simple" definition of Kenpo for those that are unfamiliar with it as you try to explain it to them?:asian:
Literature in motion.

Originally posted by RCastillo
What is a "simple" definition of Kenpo for those that are unfamiliar with it as you try to explain it to them?:asian:

I say ......... Kenpo is a modern American System of the Martial Arts Developed by Ed Parker using Logic and practicality as it applies to today's society, rather than the historical traditional approach.

:asian:

Originally posted by Seig


Literature in motion.

What ??? You must want me to get jumped on by a bunch of gang members if you want me to tell them that!:eek:

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



A practitioner needs both! However, if I were to choose one before the other it would be to develop Balance. For without "Balance" you will always have limited power.

Good Balance is a product of practice and proper body alignment. When your body is aligned properly it is able to function (with time and practice) at maximum proficiency. Power will become automatic if desired and focused upon when good balance is not constantly interrupting your movements.

Ricardo...... one flight feather!!

:asian:

Cool, but I keep gaining a feather, then, losing a feather. Let's start negotiating here so I can keep what I earn! :confused:

I have an idea for you. Don't let Mr.Conatser take them back from you.:D
Jason Farnsworth

Originally posted by jfarnsworth

I have an idea for you. Don't let Mr.Conatser take them back from you.:D
Jason Farnsworth

I don't fare very well running into giant Linebackers from The Cardinals!:o

Mr.C. hit me pretty hard one time. I could tell that there was a whole lot more left on it as he was teaching the technique, not really looking at me and discussing it with the rest of the class. YIKES. I'm just a little guy too. I guess I need to do some more weight lifting.
Jason Farnsworth

Originally posted by jfarnsworth

Mr.C. hit me pretty hard one time. I could tell that there was a whole lot more left on it as he was teaching the technique, not really looking at me and discussing it with the rest of the class. YIKES. I'm just a little guy too. I guess I need to do some more weight lifting.
Jason Farnsworth

Yep, he hit me at camp back in October, right in the throat, had trouble eating lunch that day! But, I forced myself to do it:eek:

Mr. Conatser wouldn't hit you in the throat unless he meant it... well... uh... er... lets not assume that he meant it anyway.

Laughing Out Loud,
Billy Lear
:fart:

Originally posted by RCastillo



What ??? You must want me to get jumped on by a bunch of gang members if you want me to tell them that!:eek:
That assumes they know what literature means

Originally posted by RCastillo



Yep, he hit me at camp back in October, right in the throat, had trouble eating lunch that day! But, I forced myself to do it:eek:
He was probably getting even in advance.

Originally posted by Goldendragon7



I say ......... Kenpo is a modern American System of the Martial Arts Developed by Ed Parker using Logic and practicality as it applies to today's society, rather than the historical traditional approach.

:asian:

I get the feeling that eventually I will be admonished to quit quoting Mr. Speakman, but I always try to attribute my sources.

Mr. Conatser has a great answer but an explanation that I often use comes from my 1st or 2nd Seminar with Mr. Speakman:

"The goal of Kenpo is to do the most amount of damage in the least amount of time, with the least amount of effort."

Originally posted by Seig


He was probably getting even in advance.

Geez, I never thought about that. That means I owe him one!:snipe2:

Originally posted by cdhall



I get the feeling that eventually I will be admonished to quit quoting Mr. Speakman, but I always try to attribute my sources.

Mr. Conatser has a great answer but an explanation that I often use comes from my 1st or 2nd Seminar with Mr. Speakman:

"The goal of Kenpo is to do the most amount of damage in the least amount of time, with the least amount of effort."

For once, a serious question here. If I gave such an explanation, don't you think people might be taken ababck, turned off by a definition like that? Just curious.:asian:

We'd say, damn Texans, especially the Tracys, too violent! Seriously you are right. Things like that coming form a celebrity are ok to the general public. When it comes from a non-famous MA instructor it sounds like sociopathic behavior.

Originally posted by Seig

We'd say, damn Texans, especially the Tracys, too violent! Seriously you are right. Things like that coming form a celebrity are ok to the general public. When it comes from a non-famous MA instructor it sounds like sociopathic behavior.

I think if you look, you'll see that was one of my most brief posts. I may have made a mistake consciously trying to be so brief. :(

If you were trying to sell them painting, or dance, or Tae Bo lessons, I think there would a potential issue. But if you are talking to someone about "What type of Martial Art is Kenpo?" Then I think you are OK.

I also often then say that we have an Equation Formula and I may discuss for example how 5 Swords can be you slapping them stupid, or you striking the Radial nerve on your way to poke their eyes and then break their neck. We have options. Aikido I think seeks to restrain the agressor and admonish him to see the error of his ways (there is a good post in the Aikido thread where a guy did this to someone who attacked him with a bottle while he was on duty one night in a 7-11) but as Mr. Speakman said, I have to paraphrase a bit "... if you are on the street, and some guy is coming at you whacked out on Crack, with a high-pain threshold, then sometimes you have to cripple them to stop them..." and it is in this type of situation, when a layman might think to himself "Man, I wish I knew Karate" that knowing Kenpo may save your life.

So, it depends on the circumstances. But that was a phrase I do indeed use in the course of discussing Kenpo. I also discuss how it is a Science, how the Equation Formula gives you options, how the system was created in the 50's based on what Mr. Parker knew about the street and that it was continually revised to stay current and effective until his death in 1990.

So maybe if you guys were talking in the mall and I overheard you and dropped by and said "...most amount of damage, least amount of effort..." and walked off, that would be one thing.

But to communicate how Kenpo can save your butt, how it will, perhaps like Aikido, use the attacker against himself (borrowed force and so on), how when there is an emergency in the Parking Lot as someone attacks you as you and your wife and kids get in the car (especially if you see more than one person) it can allow you to drop one attacker as you fly into and perhaps even demorallize the others, I think the quote works pretty good.

I don't watch much of the Mixed Martial Arts stuff, but I still think that all things being equal, in any altercation, Kenpo can get you out faster, with less chance of you being hurt, than any other system. Regard for the safety of the attacker notwithstanding.

I hope that helps clarify my point. As Mr. LaBounty is fond of saying, Kenpo is a "Martial Art." And he likes to emphasize "Martial." Perhaps when explaining I lean too much in that direction. I also think that if you do forms and sets for 30mins, you have a better system than TaeBo and that therefore Kenpo has the basis for a great "Cardio Karate" program as well. It's all in there. But if someone is pressing me, they usually want t