Shorinji Kempo is primarily a form of self-defense application and teaches students how to redirect the force of an opponent, turning the aggressors own power into weakness that can be exploited. Our techniques focus on using accuracy and speed to neutralize attacks and gain the upper hand. We have many techniques developed to counter grabs and holds that have useful self-defense applications. Classes are co-ed so women get opportunities for realistic practice against all types of opponents. Students are taught and encouraged to work cooperatively. Technical application focuses on gaining advantage and avoiding lasting damage to an opponent if possible.
Class Format:
Chinkon - A typical practice begins with a few minutes of seated Zazen meditation, called Chinkon, to calm and clear the mind before technical practice. At the teacher's discretion, the class may end with a brief period of Zazen as well.
Samu - Preparing the space. Students participate with preparing and keeping the practice space clean.
Taiso - Warm up with some light movement and stretching exercises. Kihon - The class practices basic stances, footwork, and movement, usually single-form in lines. During Kihon practice, basic strikes (punches and kicks), dodging and blocking techniques, footwork, and ukemi (rolls and breakfalls) are emphasized.
Goho Hokei:
Goho techniquesare usually practiced in pairs. Students train with each other on set defenses against specific strikes (punches or kicks, single or in combination) by dodging, deflecting the attack and counter-attacking with a punch or kicks . Students practice both as attacker and defender to fully understand each situation.
Unyoho or Randori: The Goho Hokei portion of class often concludes by practicing the application of Goho techniques in more random situations. Defenders practice applying techniques against attackers with multiple options for how they attack. Attackers and defenders frequently switch roles. Attackers will always begin with more limited options for attack when working with less experienced Kenshi.
Juho Hokei - The last part of class typically consists of practice in pairs on the Juho portion of the technical curriculum. Students practice set defenses against specific grabs or strikes by escaping or throwing the attacker and finishing with a pin or locking technique. Students practice as both attacker and defender. Students practice Juho Randori, where applying Juho techniques against unpredictable attacks.
Embu - Sometimes we will substitute Embu practice for other parts of practice. Embu practice is done in pairs and teaches how to flow from one technique to another, freely mixing goho and juho.
Gakka - This is a lecture or discussion of various aspects of Shorinji Kempo philosophy or technique. Sometimes this is done as a separate part of class, or may be integrated directly with the technical training.
