Kenpo, or shudokan karate?

[BKJ1216]

Well the shotokan dojo in my town closed down and they're now a kenpo one. So if anyone even knows of these styles please recomend one. I hear that shudokan isn't too diffferent from shotokan just less back stances.

[CheekyMusician]

The only way you can be sure of the art you want to learn is if you go along and watch some classes.

 

Any decent dojo would let you watch at least one class, but preferably two or three (or more) before they could expect a decision of you.

 

Speak to the instructors (prepare questions before you go), and speak to other students if possible.

 

If the place doesn't appeal to you for whatever reason, it might be best to try elsewhere.

[Smarter Child]

Go watch a class. You'll know which one you prefer. I think the instructor is more important than the style itself.

[BKJ1216]

Well what if they don't let me watch the classes? I mean these are the only two dojos in the area. I know for one that the shudokan has a free class, but the problem is that when i was young and immature I signed up, but thanks to my immaturity droppped out because there wasn't enough fighting. I don't know about the kenpo one though.

[Pacificshore]

Ok,

 

Here's the short on Kenpo. It's primary focus will be self defense. So they will have lots of self defense type techniques dealing with chokes from the front, chokes from the rear, one-hand/two-hand grabs, kicks and so on. They also have katas as well as weapons katas. But really it depends on the style of Kenpo that is there. Is it American Kenpo, which is also known as Parker Kenpo(Founder of the system)? Is it Okinawan Kenpo? There's also Kosho-ryu Kempo(Mitose system), Chinese Kenpo, Hawaiian Kenpo, and the list can go on. Many Kenpo schools can be considered traditional, meaning following in the footsteps of were their background originated from, and some considered modern or eclectic.

 

Best advice is to go take a look and watch a class. I don't see why the instructor would'nt allow it, especially if it's a commercial school. That's the only way to attract new students. One last advice. Do a search on Kenpo on the net. It'll give you more information about the system.

[BKJ1216]

I'm actually going to go watch a tornument on the 8th. I should be able to see which kind I like better.

[kenpolifter]

I think if your serious about Your martial arts training you really should go to the classes and have a sit down with the instructors. you not only need to find a style that fits you, but you also need to find an instructor that fits you as well.

 

I am kinda old shcool and prefer a less commercialized school and more old fashioned instruction. Yes if my son/daughter is not paying attention kick him/her or will. Not too hard though just enough to get his/her attention.

 

just make sure you do your homework. You have a long commitment and the last thing you want is to go bouncing all over the place and never getting any where. Good luck to ya