Kenpo for Adults

To quote Ed Parker, the founder of American Kenpo, "When 'pure' knuckles meet 'pure' flesh, that's 'pure' Karate".

Kenpo has long been under the general banner of "karate". However, recognition for it being a different style of martial arts is emerging quickly. And in many ways, this art is finally getting the notice it should - Kenpo is known for its explosive, short-ranged attacks intended for practical self-defense. Kenpo is realistic and employs sound logic and theoretical innovations not used by other systems.

Originally known as "Kenpo Jiu Jitsu", it was changed to "Kenpo Karate" during the '60s with the emergence of karate in pop culture. The truth is that the suffix can be changed at will, and the art adapted to the needs of the practitioner - but Kenpo is Kenpo.

Kenpo Karate movements develop coordination, strength, flexibility, and mental focus. You don't need any special expensive equipment; you can practice at your convenience, in your home or at our Studios. Kenpo teaches realistic methods of self-defense, utilizing all of our natural weapons (like the hands, elbows, feet and knees), in ways that anyone, not just exceptional athletes, can perform. It emphasizes speed, power, agility, and accuracy, but requires no special strength or abilities.

The practical focus of Kenpo makes it an ideal art for anyone looking to defend themselves in the modern day, especially women. Typical self-defense classes that are taught to women involve outdated, un-realistic moves. Kenpo has been proven many times on the streets, and the coordination and flexibility of women is an asset in martial arts. Our instructors have expansive training and experience in real-world self defense, from non-deadly force to adrenal stress training, and they use this to tailor our programs.

Unlike health clubs, the programs at Charm City Karate focus on the individual - you will receive personal attention in every class. This attention begins with understanding that people are different - they don't all want the same things from training, and everyone has different limitations. One of the strengths of Kenpo is that it is designed to adapt to the practitioner, not be adapted to. So we listen to discover what each student wants to learn. Then we structure the training, adapting traditional oriental training methods to accomplish the student's wishes. At the same time, we strive to make the learning experience fun. People enjoy coming to our Studios, whether to work with the instructors, or to combine exercise with socializing.

Young Adult Program

Our Young Adult program is designed to fit students who are too mature for the kids classes, but are not yet ready to work with adults. It is largely the same as the Adult program, with allowances made for

This program teaches self-defense skills, respect, concentration skills, and the foundation of proper fitness that will stay with the student for life. This training begins simply with learning to loosen up by stretching properly, and proceeds to condition your body and mind.

Charm City Karate & Life Skills Center 50 Scott Adam Rd, Suite 103, Cockeysville, MD 21030 || 410-628-4994

National Association to PROTECT Children - www.protect.org