Gordon Buck's Ohana Kenpo

In the same way the English language is based on an alphabet, Kenpo is also based on an alphabet. Each individual move, whether used offensively or defensively, is considered to be a single letter of the Kenpo alphabet. These individual moves (letters) are also known as basics.

A combination of letters (basics) using the same arm or foot form words of motion.

A combination letters (basics) using both hands and/or feet can be combined to create self-defense techniques, which are considered to be sentences of motion.

Combining sentences of motion (techniques) together form paragraphs of motion, which can be more sophisticated techniques, sets, or short forms.

Paragraphs of motion when logically combined are used to create or more sophisticated sets and forms, which are also referred to as short stories of motion.

These combinations can create an almost infinite number of alternatives, and the more versed a martial artist is in the available alternatives, the more fluent his response will be to a physical confrontation.

In time the Kenpoist will learn a fairly sizable number of techniques, forms and sets. Many think that it is these techniques, forms and sets that make them a good martial artist, but in truth all they do is provide the martial artist many varied ways to master their basics.

"Simplified moves that comprise the fundamentals of Kenpo. They are divided into: Stances, Maneuvers, Blocks, Strikes (Punches, Kicks, Finger Techniques, Parries), Specialized Moves and Methods. Each basic move constitutes an alphabet of motion that can be combined to form words, sentences, and paragraphs of motion." Ed Parker

It should go without saying that no letter, of either alphabet, is more important than any other letter and in relation to the English alphabet it really does go without saying, but in regard to the Kenpo alphabet it must be continually emphasized and reinforced.

For example, I have never met anyone who, seriously, suggested that we eliminate the letters x, y, and z from the English alphabet because, in their opinion, eliminating these (unnecessary) letters would make the alphabet less complicated and easier to learn. But on the other hand, people constantly want to eliminate “unnecessary” letters form the Kenpo alphabet as well as words, sentences and entire paragraphs from the language of Kenpo.

With adequate training and time in the art, any serious student of Kenpo will eventually see the value of being familiar with as much of our Kenpo alphabet as possible. As we gain knowledge and experience, previously unused letters, words, and paragraphs, of motion, will reveal their value and find their rightful place.

Traditional martial arts schools tend to spend a considerable amount of time practicing basics in either in stationary stances or practicing forms (katas). Whereas the Kenpo stylist will not only practice the basics stationary and in the forms, but will additionally incorporate the practice of their basics into a series of self-defense techniques.

This way the basics can be practiced while simultaneously learning and practicing useful self-defense techniques.

Ohana Kenpo