thesensei
Green Belt
First of all, this is not meant to argue whether or not video training/testing, or the IKCA in particular, is a viable training method. If you want answers to that question, there are plenty of other threads discussing the issue. This is simply to explain my journey, and reason. Other IKCA'ers - join in! It may help others who are wondering about which direction to go.
I began studying Chinese Kenpo - an older form in the Parker lineage. I loved it! It was great - especially when I compared what I was doing to friends who were in TKD McDojos! I could see a big difference, and I had a great instructor. Unfortunately, the time came when I moved, and was no longer able to keep up a regular training regimen with my instructor. I did the long distance thing for a while, but with college, and paying my way through, I did not have the time or money to make the frequent weekend trips! I began studying American Karate, while teaching for that school in several YMCA programs. By the time that school went "under," and the instructor moved away, I had earned a black belt, but once again was without a teacher. I began studying TKD in a local school. The camaraderie was great, and I loved the school environment. But, it wasn't Kenpo.
Shortly after, I moved to California. The birthplace of modern Kenpo! However, although there are several great schools in the area (SF Bay), such as John Sepulveda's, there aren't any that are close enough to go regularly. Also, my job schedule makes it very difficult for me to have time during the times that most adult classes take place!
But, the IKCA...I have the opportunity to continue my Kenpo education. I get feedback on what I am doing from people very close to the source. I am able to be involved in a helpful organization. Sure, I would like to study EPAK as it has evolved. And one day soon, I'm sure I will. But the IKCA will help me on that journey.
Thank you to Mr. Sullivan and Mr. LeRoux for providing this opportunity for me, and others in similar circumstances.
Salute,
Jeremiah
I began studying Chinese Kenpo - an older form in the Parker lineage. I loved it! It was great - especially when I compared what I was doing to friends who were in TKD McDojos! I could see a big difference, and I had a great instructor. Unfortunately, the time came when I moved, and was no longer able to keep up a regular training regimen with my instructor. I did the long distance thing for a while, but with college, and paying my way through, I did not have the time or money to make the frequent weekend trips! I began studying American Karate, while teaching for that school in several YMCA programs. By the time that school went "under," and the instructor moved away, I had earned a black belt, but once again was without a teacher. I began studying TKD in a local school. The camaraderie was great, and I loved the school environment. But, it wasn't Kenpo.
Shortly after, I moved to California. The birthplace of modern Kenpo! However, although there are several great schools in the area (SF Bay), such as John Sepulveda's, there aren't any that are close enough to go regularly. Also, my job schedule makes it very difficult for me to have time during the times that most adult classes take place!
But, the IKCA...I have the opportunity to continue my Kenpo education. I get feedback on what I am doing from people very close to the source. I am able to be involved in a helpful organization. Sure, I would like to study EPAK as it has evolved. And one day soon, I'm sure I will. But the IKCA will help me on that journey.
Thank you to Mr. Sullivan and Mr. LeRoux for providing this opportunity for me, and others in similar circumstances.
Salute,
Jeremiah