Have you ever been in an overcrowded elevator, only to have more people squeeze in at the next floor? Do you remember that feeling—tightness in […]
The Bonsai and the Black Belt: Cultivating Mastery in Martial Arts
The bonsai tree was made famous in martial arts circles by the classic film The Karate Kid, where Mr. Miyagi carefully tended to a room […]
31 Flavors of Shaolin Kempo Karate
As a child, my parents would often take us to a local ice cream shop with an astounding 31 flavors. The challenge was always the […]
Half Knowing is Not Knowing: The Myth of Recognition vs. Mastery in Martial Arts
In high school, we were all issued lockers secured with combination locks. I remember the frustration during the first week of school—I couldn’t remember the […]
The Bad Guy Weapon: Surviving Multiple Attackers Without A Weapon
At secure locations such as courthouses and airports, security checkpoints scan your belongings for weapons. I’ve seen people attempt to pass through with knives, brass […]
Kempo in Action 5
Here is a real life example of how one of my students actually used a technique in an actual bully situation. “James” vs. the BB […]
Decide What’s Valuable—Before a Mugger Asks You
Picture this: it’s late at night, and you’re walking alone down a dimly lit street. Suddenly, two individuals step out of the shadows, one pointing […]
Energy as a Visual Tool
The term “energy” has several meanings often conflicting. In terms of Kempo, we should consider the scientific notion defined as: “In physics, energy is a […]
Kempo in Action 4
Here is a real life example of how one of my students actually used a technique in an actual mugging attempt. “David” a man waiting […]
Why Slow is Actually Fast
The slowness of Tai Chi is the fastest way to develop proper waist-power, correct weight shifts, smooth movement, and muscle memory. You see it in […]