Kenpo

Chinese Kenpo is a combination of the five original Kung Fu systems dating back to around 525 AD, and traces its roots back to the legendary Shaolin Temple.

 

Kenpo is a very practical and versatile martial art.  It includes elements of striking, kicking, grappling, throws and restraints and weapon training.  Kenpo allows the student to discover and develop his or her natural abilities without insisting that everyone must do everything the same way.

 

During the 18th century, a senior member of the Mitose clan of Japan traveled to China to study at the Shaolin Temple where he remained for many years. Upon his return to Japan he introduced the art of Chu'an Fa which he called Kenpo (Japanese for "Way of the Fist").

 

This art was practiced and passed down in the Mitose line until James Mitose, who lived in Hawaii in 1940, began teaching publicly.

 

One of his students, William Chow, took over teaching the classes. Chow taught a young Hawaiian named Edmund Parker who eventually developed Kenpo into the art we know and practice today.

 

Sigung Steve LaBounty is a direct student of Ed Parker and Gary Swan is a direct student if Mr. LaBounty.