kenpo
Kenpo is a striking art originating in Japan, centered on what is broadly described as a Japanese and Okinawan fist method. Training is oriented around the use of the hands and fists as primary tools, with particular emphasis on executing fast hand combinations in a fluid and continuous manner. The style falls within the striking classification, meaning its core practice is built around stand-up offensive and defensive techniques rather than ground work or weapon handling.
As a striking art focused on hand methods and rapid combinations, training in this discipline generally involves drilling sequential hand techniques at speed, developing coordination between the upper limbs, and conditioning the practitioner to respond with multiple successive movements rather than single isolated strikes. Footwork and body positioning are typically developed alongside hand technique to support the delivery of combinations effectively.
Several distinct sub-styles have developed within the broader kenpo family, each with its own particular emphasis and approach. American Kenpo, which concentrates on self-defense combinations and rapid hand strikes, is among the most recognized of these branches and is covered in the sections below alongside other related lineages that have grown from the wider kenpo tradition.
Styles & branches of kenpo
American Kenpo
Origin: United States · Type: Striking · Lineage: kenpo
self-defense combinations, rapid hand strikes Wikipedia →
Gear to expect. Striking training typically calls for gloves, hand wraps, shin guards, and a mouthguard — your school will tell you exactly what, and when. New students rarely need to buy anything for a trial class.
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Classification and facts from our open-data taxonomy (Wikidata CC0 base + our editorial classification). Where a fact (like origin) isn't recorded, we leave it out rather than guess. Methodology.