NZKKA

Adults Kenpo

Adult classes are split into 3 levels (see below) based on experience and ability.  All classes practice the three divisions of the art: BASICS, SELF DEFENCE and FREESTYLE (Sparring) with the major emphasis on self defence.

BASICS are the fundamentals of kenpo.  Ed Parker termed the basics the alphabet of motion and practising these regularly develops the mind and body in preparation for combat.  SELF DEFENCE techniques then give definition and meaning to the basics.  Here one applies the basics into a fighting sequence (we use the alphabet to spell words).  Kenpo has a large amount of pre-arranged self defence techniques.  This aids the student to learn a large vocabulary of fighting sequences.  At higher levels these are re-arranged, pre-fixed, inserted, deleted etc so that the Kenpo student has a full knowledge of kenpo motion that can be called on spontaneously.

FREESTYLE, or sparring plays a smaller but practical part of Kenpo.  Since techniques are not pre-arranged freestyle teaches timing, proper gauging of distance, reflexes, and a more realistic atmosphere.  In NZKKA we only practice semi-contact sparring, and safety is paramount.

Beginner Adults (the Embryonic phase):

This class runs on Mon/Wed nights and is for new students and those up to purple belt (up to 2 yrs).  The yellow and orange belt techniques are designed to teach the basics and essentials of kenpo (how to block, punch, kick and how to put these together into basic self defence moves.  The purple and blue belt techniques are then designed to teach the student correct co-ordination and flow (timing).  Once achieving blue belt the student moves into the intermediate class.

Intermediate Class (the Mechanical phase):

This class is taught on Tues/Thurs nights and is for blue, green and brown belts.  The training takes a step up as the student in this class sets their goal on the coveted black belt.  Paired up training intensifies along with the level of contact (though controlled).  In this class, students work on speed and power.  Combining this with what they have previously learned, their self defence techniques grow stronger and so does their confidence.  After around 5yrs of continuos training a student is likely to be ready to sit their black belt grading (though some may take longer).  Black Belts gradings take place twice a year and are held over two days.  Successful students progress to the advanced class.

Advanced Class (the Spontaneous phase): 

Also held on Tues/Thurs nights, the black belt class focusses on perfecting all techniques along with grafting techniques together.  This is where parts of different techniques are put together due to attacker's different reactions.  This training teaches the student spontaneity so that they have the confidence to respond to any given attack.  This expert level takes years to develop.