The Philosophy of the Guardian Angels

Mr. Joe Palanzo highlight video

So this is kind of an interesting video. It first caught my eye because the title of the video is "How Joe Palanzo Saved Ed Parker's System."

I hurried and clicked on it thinking I was going to get some narration and a story on how Mr. Palanzo saved Mr. Parker's system. However there was no such narration and not really anything to explain why the video is titled as it is. 

I was left scratching my head but I did enjoy the video, there is a lot of old clips of Mr. Palanzo doing some demonstrations, performing Long Form 6, as well as some other highlights. It is worth a watch. 

Also, earlier this year I posted a video of Mr. Palanzo interviewing Mr. Parker and that video is a great one to watch if you haven't yet, here is the link. But watch this video first!

Mr. Palanzo interviews Mr. Parker

Mr. Parker and Mr. Speakman on the set of The Perfect Weapon

Per Wikipedia, Mr. Parker was an advisor to Mr. Speakman on the set of The Perfect Weapon.

I think many people are under the impression that Mr. Parker choreographed the fight scenes as well but according to Wikipedia, (if you believe everything Wikipedia says,) he was just an "advisor" where Mr. Rick Avery, a well known Hollywood stuntman, did all the fight choreography. 

A plethora of seminars and tournaments

These are just a few that I have seen promoted but I'm sure there are many more. 

Long Form 4 with Mr. Jamie Seabrook

Mr. Jamie Seabrook just put together a 4 part series on YouTube about Long Form 4 and its techniques and why they are in the form.

It is greatly worth the time to not only watch the videos but to use them as a study guide to help us better understand this important form.

Part 1: Walk-Through Pace

Part 2: Walk-Through Pace

Part 3: Walk-Through Pace

Part 4: Walk-Through Pace

Mr. Tatum on extensions to base techniques

(posted on Facebook by Mr. Tatum earlier this year)

An extension to a base technique serves different purposes.

Some extensions are just the reverse of the base technique, but move on to different planes of motion.

Some are the same pattern but using your legs as the weapons.

Some extensions take one of the master key geometric shapes from a base technique and place it within the extension to highlight its use on different planes and usage.

Some extensions keep the base technique without altering it, but move it to other planes by using different footwork to change the plane of your action.

Some extensions use the same basics of the base technique, but within a different pattern.

Some extensions depart from the base technique and consist of random elements of techniques within the system; this teaches that even the random can easily be connected to your base without giving the lesson of reverse, opposites, pattern change, or re-highlighting one or more patterns within a base technique.

The base techniques are like cells of concepts and principles of motion that can be randomly generated and cross-referenced to a new base, or what we call extensions, so the student can see the totality of how all the Art is related to itself and morphs into what is needed to continue your flow of action without hesitation.

You might say that the base techniques are like your conscious mind, while the extension is your subconscious mind, feeding you what you need beyond the conscious mind. Later, the two merge into a single, unified mind, or super consciousness.

Remember that each alteration of a base technique creates a new ideal phase of a technique through an extension.

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(some follow up information when Mr. Tatum was asked if the extensions are over-kill)

Not over kill but over skilled in terms of understanding how the base technique fits into the extensions and in the process giving one the three Dimensional use of the Art. There is no cap on learning in the system, it is an open-ended triangle of a progressive learning cycle that once learned in its totality, there is no beginning or end to it, it becomes self-fulfilling, so the student can pick and choose what is useful for them depending on the situation.

Kenpo does have an ethical code of behavior, but it is built into the system's first part. What can be viewed as an overkill is allowing the student to understand the ramifications of escalated use of force. But in terms of survival, he is taught to go beyond the line of basic defense and do whatever it takes when your life is on the line.

Kenpo clock

I saw this "kenpo clock" for sale on the internet the other day and thought that isn't a bad idea. However I could come up with a few better ideas for a kenpo clock than this one. 

How 'bout:

- Time to put the gi on

- Time to practice finger set

- Time to get to the dojo

- Time to check someone's height, width and depth

- Time to see if kenpo really works

- Time to watch "The Perfect Weapon" again

The roots of the Two Man Set

There is always a lot of discussion on the early days of Mr. Parker's kenpo and how the forms and sets came to be. It seems like the only thing anyone agrees on is that they can't agree on the exact history of the forms and sets. But as Dr. Ron Chapel has said before "people spend a lot of time arguing about the wrong thing when they should be working on their stances."

So without getting too deep down the rabbit hole about the origins of Two Man Set, here is a video of what could be the roots of what we know today as our Two Man Set.

(it looks like you have to click the link to watch it directly on YouTube)

Old Style Okinawan & Chinese Kempo:

Two Man Kata - Part A

MOH CHAU SEMETE - Attacking Hand

Two Man Kata Part B

MOH CHAU UKETE - Receiving Hand

Great photo of Mr. Parker

Maybe another photo cleaned up or restored using AI, not sure.

Great photo either way.

Links to Mr. Frank Trejo interviews

Frank Trejo interview #1

Frank Trejo interview #2 - part 1 of 3

Frank Trejo interview #2 - part 2 of 3

Frank Trejo interview #2 - part 3 of 3

Recent USSD 10th degree black belt promotions

(from the USSD Facebook page)

A Historic Moment for United Studios of Self Defense 

Some achievements are measured in years. Others are measured in lifetimes.

This weekend, Soke Jack Turner and Soke Richard Black were promoted to 10th Degree Black Belt (Judan) one of the rarest honors in martial arts.

For more than 35 years, they have walked this path together, carrying forward the legacy of their teacher, Senior Professor and Grandmaster Charles Mattera. His guidance shaped them into the leaders who have inspired generations throughout USSD.

Though different in personality, they have complemented one another like Yin and Yang one bringing calm and steady leadership, the other relentless passion and drive. Together, they have strengthened each other and everyone around them.

After successfully completing a rigorous multi day evaluation, they earned a rank that represents far more than technical mastery. Their greatest achievement is the countless students, instructors, and lives they have impacted.

This is more than a promotion it is the continuation of a legacy and a historic milestone for United Studios of Self Defense.

Congratulations, Grand Master Jack Turner and Grand Master Richard Black. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Dynamic Kenpo, Volume 1: Evolving Perspectives on the Art of Scientific Violence

(from Amazon)

by Jason Creel (Author)

Dynamic Kenpo, Volume 1: Evolving Perspectives on the Art of Scientific Violence

Kenpo was never meant to remain static; for decades, martial artists have focused on memorizing techniques, collecting belt ranks, and accumulating information. But information alone does not create skill—and it certainly does not prepare someone for the chaos of real violence.

Drawing on more than thirty years of training, teaching, research, and practical experience, Jason Creel explores the principles that transform Kenpo from a collection of techniques into a logical, adaptable system of self-preservation. Rather than presenting endless technique lists, this book examines the underlying concepts that allow practitioners to think, analyze, adapt, and continually refine their Kenpo into a living and functional Art.

Inside you'll explore topics including:

• Building the mindset and attitude necessary for effective self-preservation

• Developing speed, accuracy, power, timing, and intent

• Understanding body mechanics and functional movement

• Training methods that create transferable skill instead of rote memorization

• Decision-making under pressure and tactical problem solving

• Continuous refinement, critical thinking, and lifelong growth in the martial arts

• Practical drills and exercises to accelerate development

Whether you study American Kenpo, another striking art, or simply want to understand the principles behind effective martial training, Dynamic Kenpo, Volume 1 provides a framework for becoming a more capable, more thoughtful, and more adaptable martial artist.

This is not a book about collecting techniques; it is about learning how to think and grow.

(Link to Amazon)

Gathering of Eagles 2026 - schedule

 

Broken Rhythm - Bruce Lee's Game of Death

Yet another Bruce Lee documentary, however this one might have its place. Apparently not all of the Game of Death footage that exists has been shown, until now with Broken Rhythm.   

I suppose as long as there are interesting aspects of Bruce Lee's life and career that haven't been explored people are going to explore it. 

(description from the YouTube video)

Bruce Lee’s unfinished film 'Game of Death' has long captivated audiences. The footage he shot before his untimely passing – later reworked and incorporated into a film bearing the same title – carries a mysterious, almost mythic allure. Within these fragments lies a striking cinematic language and rich symbolic intent, revealing Lee’s ambitions not merely as a martial artist, but as a visionary actor, writer and director. What was he striving to express through this project, and what does it reveal about an artist too often reduced to the label of kung fu icon?

Alan Canvan's 'Broken Rhythm' is the first feature-length documentary to examine 'Game of Death' in depth, illuminating Lee’s aspirations as a filmmaker at the dawn of the New Hollywood movement and marking his earliest attempt to create what he described as “multi-level films.” The 1978 release – premiering five years after Lee’s death – contained only a fraction of what he filmed in 1972. Producer André Morgan, involved in both versions, guides us through the complex timeline behind the film’s completion, shedding light on the creative, financial, and logistical compromises that reshaped Lee’s original vision. By reassessing the commercial success of the 1978 version, 'Broken Rhythm' journeys backward to uncover a markedly different film than the one audiences ultimately saw.

Through exclusive interviews and rare archival material, 'Broken Rhythm' highlights an ensemble of voices offering firsthand insight into Lee’s life, work, and creative ambitions. Featured participants include those who worked closely with Lee on 'Game of Death', such as Andre Morgan, Dan Inosanto, and Ji Han Jae, alongside biographer Matthew Polly and playwright David Henry Hwang, who offer fresh perspectives on his artistic intent. Actress and producer Colleen Camp adds further dimension, reflecting on Lee’s enduring power as a cinematic icon. Together with additional voices, these accounts uncover revelatory details about the production of 'Game of Death', recontextualizing Lee’s legacy while exploring how his work grapples with enduring existential questions of life, death, identity, and the pursuit of artistic immortality.

For more information, visit cityonfire.com

1968 Karate Tournament of Champions - Hawaii tournament program

(Recently posted to Facebook by Mr. Rich Hale.)

An autographed official program signed by Mr. Parker given to Mr. Hale. 

Definitely a treasure.   

A couple of links to Larry Tatum interviews

In the past it seemed like Mr. Tatum didn't do any interviews, or if he did they weren't readily available.  

Lately however a couple of interviews with Mr. Tatum have come up on YouTube. 

Here are the links, enjoy.

link to My Empty Hands interview

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link to Whistlekick Martial Arts interview

Some thoughts on Kenpo techniques by Mr. Shayne Simpson

(recently posted on Facebook by Mr. Shayne Simpson)

A Kenpo technique is essentially a coordinated flurry of strikes, but only if you take the opponent out of time with the very first strike.

Just like in an MMA fight, once the opponent is stunned and their timing is broken, the fighter immediately unleashes a rapid combination of strikes to finish the encounter.

If you fail to disrupt their timing on the first move, what began as self-defense quickly turns into a back-and-forth fight

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Part 2 of my thoughts on Kenpo Techniques, and How we train them at Rock Solid. 

Kenpo techniques are not self-defense. In the techniques, you already know the answer before the problem is even given to you. That’s not how real violence works.

Ed Parker’s Kenpo techniques are Cycle of Consideration short stories, training tools that teach recognizable moments, concepts, and principles. They explore Attitude, Environment, dimensional stages of action, positions, maneuvers, targets, weapons, and angles. The principles and concepts within them are rooted in logic, using the three points of view to determine what is useful, unusual and what is useless.

That is exactly how Rock Solid Kenpo Jiu Jitsu uses Ed Parker’s Kenpo techniques to train.

We treat them as valuable short stories to learn from … but if I ever end up in a real self-defense situation or a fight, I won’t be reciting a technique. I’ll be writing my own story in real time, using the awareness, principles, concepts, and adaptable tools I gained from all those stories.

The technique isn’t the answer.

It’s the training that prepares you to create your own answer when it matters.

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Part 3 of my thoughts on Kenpo Techniques 

One of my biggest pet peeves? Keyboard warriors who trash the cooperative stage of training because they don’t understand how real learning and skill development actually work. They see partners drilling techniques slowly and cooperatively and immediately dismiss it as “not real fighting.”

They’re right about one thing: a good practitioner moves through the full progression, cooperative → collaborative → competitive → combative.  Those stages are clearly laid out in Lawrence Robinson's book The Better Bad Guy (available on Amazon). 

But what they miss is that the cooperative stage isn’t a weakness, it’s the essential foundation everything else is built on.

Here’s why it’s so powerful:

Recent neuroscience shows that “muscle memory” isn’t actually stored in the muscles at all. Muscles store zero memory, they simply respond to electrical (and chemical) signals from the brain, routed through the spine. 

The real work happens in the ganglia and especially the cerebellum, which fine-tunes movement using vision and proprioceptive feedback (those receptors that tell your body where its parts are in space).

To develop real skill, we have to make imperfect movements. That’s how the cerebellum calibrates and refines technique. This is exactly why the progression slow/mechanical → slow/fluid→ fast/mechanical → fast/fluid is so effective. 

Going slow first allows the brain to properly wire the movement. Rushing it too early just grooves in mistakes. And don’t forget: roughly half of effective movement is anticipation and expectation. 

That’s why visualization is so powerful, it builds long term potentiation, strengthening the neural connections related to the movement before you even execute it. The cooperative stage gives us the safe, focused reps needed to build these deep, reliable patterns. It’s where the real wiring happens.

To everyone here who already gets it: keep embracing the process. 

Respect every stage of the journey. 

Real skill isn’t built in ego-driven chaos, it’s forged through deliberate, intelligent practice.

Train Intelligently . 

Train with purpose. 

Forge your own path.

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Part 4

When we train, we always have a choice: we can train in the Attention State or the Intention State.

In the Attention State, we deliberately focus on refining a specific principle, concept, or combination. This focused work is best done in cooperative or collaborative training environments, where your partner supports your skill development.

Example: Let’s say I’m refining the technique Five Swords and I want to improve my perceptual speed, one of the key types of speed in our system. I know I’m right-eye dominant, so I naturally scan left-to-right and top-to-bottom.

In the Attention State, I consciously pay attention to where my dominant eye is focusing (usually my opponent’s right shoulder). I adjust my positioning and movement so my dominant eye stays closest to the opponent and locked onto that key area. This is a principle I’m working to internalize so deeply that I no longer have to think about it, I just do it.

Over time, this builds the ability to see the fight more clearly and recognize defensive opportunities faster.

As Skip Hancock teaches: The Dominant Eye will lead and the rest will follow.

Once I’ve done the focused work in the Attention State, I shift into the Intention State. This is where I test myself in more competitive or combat-oriented training. My single intention might be “see the fight better,” but I don’t consciously focus on the mechanics anymore. I simply get in and train to end the fight.

After the round, I step back and analyze:

• How well did I maintain perceptual speed and dominant-eye positioning?

• Did the skill show up naturally, or do I need to return to the Attention State to sharpen it further?

This process aligns directly with Skip Hancock’s teaching that Intention guides Attention. It’s a smart, layered way to build real skill. This is the power of intelligent training. I could train in a primitive way and only chase raw physical speed. I have fast-twitch fibers, so that comes relatively easy to me.

But real dominance comes from mastering all types of speed, such as perceptual speed, which comes from familiarity and deliberate practice. That’s what allows me to neutralize someone who’s physically faster than I am. I’m using perceptual speed and eye dominance as one example, but the same Attention → Intention process applies to countless principles in Kenpo.

So when you hear others criticize the way we train, have sympathy for them.

They simply don’t understand it.

Their approach is often primitive because they’ve never learned how to build skills this deliberately and intelligently.

Trust the process. Never let someone who says “That’ll never work” discourage you. Usually, it’s because they don’t know how to train effectively.

Stay compassionate. 

Their abilities will always be limited until they learn to train smarter.

Keep forging ahead.

Professor Chow black belt class

If you look close, everyone in this photo is a black belt, so I am assuming this is one of Professor Chow's advanced black belt classes.

The Emperado brothers, Joe and Adriano, are sitting on each side of Professor Chow.

I don't know about you, but I would be scared as hell to be in this class. It looks to me that only one guy (tall guy in the back) has what you could call even a hint of a smile. The rest are dead serious.

I wouldn't last five minutes in this class.

Professor William "Thunderbolt" Chow

Pretty much all of what we know as Kenpo began with this man. 

This photo looks to be a cleaned up version of an old photo we have all probably seen a thousand times. I guess this new AI stuff is good for something, like cleaning up old photos.

Techniques are like maps

 

Mark your calendars

 

Dian Tanaka interview (part 1)

There have been a lot of great interviews come out lately, and here is another one from the Blood, Sweat, and Cinema YouTube channel. Dian Tanaka is a very accomplished kenpoist and became quite famous in the kenpo community for her skills with performing forms at the Long Beach Internationals.

(There is also a "part 2" but that is for members only it looks like.)

I've only listened to half of the interview so far but loved her stories about being at the West LA studio and how you couldn't part in front of the building unless you drove a Cadillac.

(If you drove just a normal car you had to park around back.)

Deadly

(recently posted on Facebook by Mr. Tom Bleeker)

Some of these articles from the early days of martial arts in America are fun to read, probably every martial art was touting itself as the "most leathal" or "most deadly" art.

And yes, we do have the ability to easily hurt someone with our martial art, but it is still interesting to look back and see how the martial arts were advertised to the public.

Mr. Parker and Mr. Brian Adams during a demonstration

(photo recently shared on Facebook by Mr. Spencer Bolejack)

What a great photo! 

1962, Mr. Parker and Mr. Brian Adams demonstrating what looks to be a club technique. Great work by the photographer at capturing the action just at the right moment. Notice the knee check!

Judging by the background in the photo this looks like it came from the same demonstration in this previous post from several years ago, (see link)

https://kenponotes.blogspot.com/2017/08/mr-parker-demonstrating.html

Looks like a who's who from the early days of kenpo, Dan Inosanto, Tom Bleecker, and Steve Golden for example.

Also, seeing as they were using a microphone at the demonstration I'm thinking the first photo of Mr. Parker in the following linked post came from this demonstration as well.

https://kenponotes.blogspot.com/2018/09/photos-of-mr-parker-shared-on-ed-parker.html 

And finally, here are a couple of links to posts about Mr. Brian Adams if you missed them and want to know a little more about him.

https://kenponotes.blogspot.com/2025/07/the-medical-implications-of-karate.html

https://kenponotes.blogspot.com/2025/08/mr-brian-adams-interview-on-kenpo-in.html

The Tracy system turns 60

 

A little too realistic

Facebook link to USSD Master Class advert

At the above link you will find a video on the USSD Facebook page from Master Jose Rodriguez giving some information about their upcoming Masters Seminar.

What caught my eye is Master Rodriguez demonstrating their version of Parting Wings (at least that's what it looks like, a defense against a two handed push.) Look closely, after he executes the block he throws an elbow strike to the jaw that actually connects!

We've all been there, in our attempt to make a technique as real as possible we get a little too anxious and actually connect with our fellow classmate. 

Usually what comes next is either a, "Ohhhh, are you alright? Sorry about that bro."

Or maybe even a, "Yup, that technique works."

Hopefully then we all laugh it off and chalk it up to a learning experience. 

But never forget, Kenpo actually works. We all have the bruises, bloody noses, and aching muscles to prove it.

USSD Master Class Event 2026

(from ussd.com)

Train with the highest ranking black belts in our Kempo system.

We invite you to the Westin Resort in Anaheim to train with the highest ranking black belts in our Kempo system.

Soke Richard Black, and Soke Jack Turner, will lead this unprecedented two-day event for USSD Students and Families. They will be joined by a special guest instructor— a monk from the Shaolin Temple in China.

Soke Black and Soke Turner will be joined by by fellow instructors Master Deric Terrell, Master Jose Rodriguez, Master Gary Flickenger, and Master Terri Martin— each of whom will train our students on topics ranging from joint locks and controlling the fight, to take downs and the real-world application of our Kempo techniques.

For the enjoyment of our younger students, Master Zappen and Master Cordero will be teaching a Kids Seminar on Saturday, July 18th from 10:00am - 5:30pm.

This event is open to all USSD students and Families. There are many ways to participate.  

https://www.ussd.com/campaigns/2026/masters-class-2026

‍

The Kenpo Salutation Meaning

(from the Irish Karate Association Facebook page)

The Kenpo Karate Salute with the left palm over right fist isn’t exclusive to Kenpo, but something that is used in many systems with Chinese origins. It’s is a seemingly simple gesture, and was used as a greeting in China, but the meaning has additional interpretations from a martial context.

This gesture shows the duality of things, such as:

• Open (hand)

• Scholar

• Dragon

• Yang

• White

• Sun

• Hardness

• 5 Lakes

• Closed (hand)

• Warrior

• Tiger

• Yin

• Black

• Moon

• Softness

• 4 Seas

In Kenpo Karate we often refer to the open hand and the fist as: “The scholar” and “The warrior” respectively (and also “The Dragon” and “The Tiger”). But what does it all mean?

In Chinese there is a saying:

“To cultivate both the civil and the martial”

(wenwu shuangxiu – 文武雙修)

And in Japan they also have a similar phrase:

“To excel in both arts / sciences and martial arts”

(“bunbu ryodo” – 文武両道)

From a Kenpo practitioner’s perspective it means that in order to understand the martial, we need to understand the science and gain knowledge to not only understand HOW (the warrior) but also the WHY (the scholar) of what we do.

Additionally it’s implied through these sayings that:

Through our studies we ought to strive to become a more balanced human being. Create virtues such as respect, politeness / courtesy and self-control. And through diligent study and training to become a more understanding and compassionate human being and only show force whenever it is absolutely necessary.

What about all of the other symbolism of the fist and open hand mentioned above?

Another often used interpretation of the salute in Chinese martial arts is in the phrase:

“People in the 5 lakes and 4 seas are all brothers”

(Wuhusihai jie xiongdi – 五湖四海皆兄弟)

In this case, the Five Lakes is represented by your closed fist; while the open hand represents the four seas. And the understanding is that “The Five Lakes and Four Seas” represent their country (of China – or the world from their perspective).

So, we as Kenpo practitioners can take it to mean that we are all part of a Brotherhood.

The last one I’ll mention today is perhaps the most well-known meaning of the salute:

“Overthrowing the Ching to restore the Ming”

(反清復明 – fan Qing fu Ming)

This comes from a legend that implied meaning to the shapes of the hand. The left hand (open hand) began representing the sun (日); and the right hand, the fist, represented the moon (月); which together makes the Chinese word for MING (明); and was a secret “handshake” of sorts to signify that you stood with the Ming.

There are obviously other interpretations of the salute, but hopefully this basic overview has provided some clarity

The "kenpo wheel" patch

 

I have no information on the history of this patch, but it looks like someone put some effort into its design. 

Kind of a play off the Universal Pattern, it has the circle with overlapping lines representing the 8 directional points, like an octagon. 

I've seen it discussed before where the lines also look like kenpo sticks or clubs, as in Long Form 7.

And the colors of the lines represent kenpo's three depth zones:

Zone 1 - the closest depth represented in red

Zone 2 - mid-depth represented in orange 

Zone 3 - the outermost depth represented in yellow

This patch is readily available on many martial art supply websites.

available on awma.com

Circular Tiger and Dragon patch

 

I have no history on this patch either,  but I'm assuming it was just created by one of the many martial arts supply companies. 

Most likely they needed to offer an alternate kenpo patch and this is what they came up. Who knows? 

I used to see it for sale on many different martial art supply websites but now it is only coming up on one website that I can see, 

https://www.bokleipo.com/patch/266-dragon-tiger-with-kkenpo-karate-patch-35.html

Mr. Eddie Downey interview

Great interview with Mr. Eddie Downey with some great stories and kenpo history shared. The interview is an hour and a half long so put on a pot of coffee, or boil some water for tea, but sit back and relax with your favorite drink and enjoy.

Just cleaning out the "saved photos" file

You get these photos saved on your computer thinking you will do something with them and then you never figure out what to do. 

Probably a good time to just post them as is.

The Mr. Parker photo is an interesting one, someone used AI to clean up an old photo and make it look like a recent one. The only problem is AI didn't know what to do with the patch on Mr. Parker's gi so it looks like no patch Mr. Parker ever wore. Silly AI.

The photo of Professor Chow must have been taken when he was young, he has short hair and looks to be in very good physical shape. You almost get nervous just looking at the photo, like that strike could come at you at any moment.

And the photo of Grandmaster McSweeney is just a classic photo from the good old days of kenpo.

AI enhanced photo of Mr. Parker

 

A young Professor Chow

 

Grandmaster John McSweeney

Every minute counts

 

Kenpo in the park

Kind of a mystery photo, never seen this one before. Date and location unknown.

Mr. Parker with a couple of the Flores brothers in a park watching a demonstration perhaps.

That might be Mr. Speakman as well, but maybe not. It doesn't totally look like Mr. Speakman so I'm not sure.

The oldest American Kenpo Karate school

(recently posted on Facebook by Mr. Steve Cooper)

An Invitation to All! June 13, 2026 we will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of our Studio. United Kenpo Karate Studio is the oldest American kenpo studio in the USA, maybe even the world. That started out as an original Ed Parker franchise studio, which still operates and teaches American Kenpo Karate in the same location for 60 years now. We invite all our kenpo friends near and far to come help us celebrate this milestone achievement. Under the leadership of our owner Steve Cooper we strive to teach American Kenpo at it's highest level. Come join us for a day of kenpo demonstrations, rank promotions of our Black Belts, games and fun along with some great food. 10:00am to 2:00PM at UKKS 10662 Westminster Ave, Garden Grove CA 92843. All you need do is mark your calendar and make plans to be here, we will do the rest.

Cool Kenpo hoodie

Kind of a mysterious kenpo hoodie, Goggle searches for this hoodie have come up with nothing.

Perhaps it's one of a kind, but I hope not, I would buy myself one in an instant if I could. 

The search will continue.  

International Karate Championship Trophy - designed by Mr. Mills Crenshaw

Only those who keep kenpo notes will know who designed the IKC trophy.

Billy Blanks with Mr. Cerio

(date and location unknown)

Billy Blanks was a nationally ranked competitor in semi-contact and point karate during the 1980's, winning a bronze medal at the 1981 World Games, before creating the Tae Bo exercise program which became nationally popular in the 1990's.

Mindset, Natural Ability and Trained Skill, the killer combination

(from the Irish Karate Association Facebook page)

The synthesis of mindset, natural ability, and training defines a fighter's success, with mental toughness and consistent, high-intensity training often overcoming pure physical talent.

While natural attributes like speed, strength, and reflexes provide an initial advantage, they fade without the "grind" of dedicated training. 

Here is a breakdown based on the conclusion of previous studies:

1. Mindset (The "Mental Weapon")

The fighter's mindset is often the defining factor between a good fighter and a great one, acting as the "inner fortress" in high-stress scenarios. 

 Mental Toughness: This involves resilience (bouncing back from loss), pressure management, and the ability to maintain composure under stress.

 The Growth Mindset: Elite fighters view failures not as final, but as data for improvement. They focus on being their best, rather than just beating an opponent.

 Controlled Aggression: A "warrior" mindset involves controlled aggression, where adrenaline is used to fuel movement, rather than clouded judgment.

 Key Psychological Tools:

 Visualization/Imagery: Mentally rehearsing techniques and successful scenarios to prime the nervous system.

 Positive Self-Talk: Replacing self-doubt with constructive, proactive affirmations.

 Mindfulness: Staying present and avoiding overthinking in the heat of a fight. 

2. Natural Ability (The "Starting Point")

Natural ability provides a head start but is not enough to maintain long-term success. 

Physical Traits: These include innate speed, strength, flexibility, and reflexes.

"The Talent Trap": Relying solely on natural talent can lead to a lack of resilience, where a fighter struggles when faced with a more disciplined opponent.

Capacity to Learn: While some pick up techniques faster, "grit" (the drive to keep training when exhausted or hurting) is a developed trait that ultimately surpasses innate, untrained talent. 

3. Training in Fighting (The "Hardening Process")

Training acts as the "compensating factor" for lack of natural talent and the mechanism to refine skills. 

Technical and Tactical Drills: Exhaustive repetition of techniques to ensure they become second nature (muscle memory).

Pressure Testing: Sparring with fully resisting opponents to simulate real-world chaos.

Physical Conditioning: Interval training to build both explosive power and endurance.

Consistency: "Grind" or "grit"—the ability to show up day after day—is emphasized over natural talent.

Lee Defeats Sun In 60 Seconds - Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story

Throwback Saturday night, here is a scene from the 1993 film Dragon: the Bruce Lee story. 

Hollywood can't get anything accurate it seems, and here is a good example. This scene takes place at the Long Beach Internationals, however they have it taking place in what looks like a high school gymnasium.... in a boxing ring!

Also, Bruce fights an opponent to prove his Jeet Kune Do principles are correct. They base this off Bruce's fight with Wong Jack Man, however in the film he fights "Johnny Sun." And to boot the fight with Wong Jack Man took place at Bruce's Oakland dojo, not at the Internationals.

Anyway, you get the idea. 

I guess we just need to relax and have fun with it, at least they did get Ed Parker Jr. to play the role of Mr. Parker.

A tribute to the great Mr. Chuck Norris

10 tips to become a forms champion

(from the USSD blog)

FORMS CHAMPIONS AREN’T MADE BY LUCK.

They’re built through attention to basics, stances, and control that holds up under pressure. From white belt kata to the most advanced black belt form, judges can see when your power is real, your balance is steady, and your speed is intentional. Add presence, focus, and flexibility, and your performance becomes impossible to ignore.

NO MATTER YOUR RANK, THIS LIST WILL HELP YOU SHARPEN WHAT MATTERS MOST BEFORE YOUR NEXT USSD TOURNAMENT.

1. Basics: 

Regardless of your rank, your basics need to be sharp. As a beginner, your basics might consist of a front kick and some punches. As an advanced competitor, your basics might include spinning kicks, jumping kicks or multiple hand combinations.

2. Stances: 

Stances are like the foundation of a house. If they are weak, you will have a weak foundation and a poorly built house. If they are strong, you will have a strong foundation for your home. Keep your stances as low as they should be. Be sure that your weight distribution and foot alignment are accurate. Your posture is also very important before and after your presentation.

3. Power: 

A form is a self-defense scenario against imaginary opponents. Therefore, your movements better be effective. Strong kicks, punches and blocks are essential. It’s better to have a strong low kick than a weak high kick. Don’t give up power for flash.

4. Balance: 

Stumbling during a forms routine is a major error. Don’t think it’s impossible to lose your balance, especially if you’re throwing advanced techniques. Therefore, demonstrate good balance and show that you are in control during the entire routine.

5. Speed: 

Some basic, traditional forms do not require much speed from strike to strike. However, even in a simple form, show great speed in single kick or a single punch. In the more advanced forms, showing a quick combination of movements is important. Try not to make your entire routine a blur though. Stop a couple of seconds after each combo to let the judges appreciate your solid stances, incredible balance and perfect basics. Don’t emphasize speed exclusively.

6. Intensity and Presence: 

Remember, when you are performing a form, you are fighting imaginary opponents. Therefore, you should not have a blank look on your face or a smile. Be intense. Use your facial expressions to let the judges visualize what you are really doing. Be vocal and use your internal chi (energy) to deliver more power through your kiai (spirit yell).

7. Focus and Concentration: 

You must focus if you want your techniques to be accurate. Usually, when a person’s eyes start to wander, he is unsure of his next move. Don’t lose your concentration because you didn’t practice enough, someone starts playing loud music in the next ring, or if someone wanders through your ring during the middle of your performance.

8. Flexibility: 

If your flexibility is good, you will be able to perform harder, fancier kicks or gymnastics moves. I don’t think there is anything more exciting than watching someone throw a kick straight up with good execution and power. If you’re a traditionalist, good flexibility will allow you to move with greater ease.

9. Difficulty of moves: 

The more difficult your moves are, the higher you’ll score. However, many people put difficult moves in their routines before they are ready to throw them flawlessly. Wait until you can nail them every time.

10. Have a good back up: 

Make sure you know the rules regarding ties. Some tournaments may require a different routine. Even if they don’t require a different form, have a solid back up. If you can go out and do a different form just as well as the first, you are showing how multi-dimensional you are.

https://www.ussd.com/post/10-essential-tips-to-become-a-forms-champion

Never be surprised by a shot to the groin

Looks like Mr. Trejo was a little surprised by the shot to the groin.

Rule #1 in kenpo: Never be surprised by a shot to the groin.

 

Kenpo Beyond the Technique by Dale Sheptak

(from Facebook)

After many years of practicing and teaching martial arts, I finally decided to put some ideas into a small book.

Kenpo Beyond the Technique explores something I’ve been thinking about for a long time: Kenpo is not just a collection of techniques. It’s a way of understanding distance, timing, and adaptability under pressure.

The book focuses on the principles behind the system rather than step-by-step instruction.

It’s a short reflection on how I believe the art works beneath the surface.

If you happen to be interested, it’s available on Amazon.

Kenpo Beyond the Technique - Dale Sheptak

(from Amazon)

Kenpo techniques are often criticized as too complex, too scripted, or too dependent on cooperation to work in real situations. Kenpo: Beyond the Technique argues that this criticism misunderstands what Kenpo training is actually designed to do.

Rather than offering techniques as literal solutions, Kenpo uses structured movement as a training environment. Techniques function as constraints that develop perception, balance, timing, and decision making under pressure, preparing practitioners to adapt when situations break down rather than follow choreography.

Drawing on Kenpo theory, comparisons to boxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and decades of martial arts and coaching experience, this book reframes familiar concepts such as checking, attribute development, and grafting as tools for managing uncertainty rather than achieving perfect execution.

This book is written for practitioners and instructors who feel a gap between what they train and what they expect would happen in real encounters. It is not a manual, a lineage argument, or a defense of Kenpo. It is an exploration of how martial systems prepare people to move intelligently when certainty disappears.

link to Amazon

The Rank Without Foundation - (from Mr. Mike Stone's Facebook page)

(from Mr. Mike Stone's Facebook page - March 5th, 2026)

Aloha Friends, It's another beautiful day in paradise. 

How times have changed.

I began my karate training when I first joined the U.S. Army in 1962, shortly after graduating from high school. Training in the martial arts, especially karate, was very different from what it is today. When I say different, I am not judging whether it was better or worse. It was simply different.

The times were different. The attitudes were different. Life was different, and so were the people.

There were good times and bad times, good people and difficult ones, just as there are today. It was a simpler era in many ways. Life still had its hardships and challenges, but today it sometimes feels as though we have lost something precious, a feeling, an attitude, a sense of caring for ourselves and for each other.

I admit that as a teenager, I was lost, naïve, inexperienced, and largely clueless about who I was or who I wanted to become.

Everything began to change in the summer of 1961 when I attended my first martial arts class. It was an Aikido demonstration taught by Koichi Tohei, the highest-ranking practitioner under the founder of Aikido, Professor Morihei Ueshiba.

What I witnessed that day stayed with me forever.

Tohei Sensei embodied the qualities of character I wished to possess. His movements were graceful and effortless, yet there was unmistakable control of both mind and body. For the first time in my life, I understood that discipline was not punishment.

Discipline was freedom.

Freedom through control.

Freedom through awareness.

Freedom through mastery of self.

Over the past six decades, I have witnessed many phases of karate. Some were inspiring, others concerning. One change stands out clearly: in many schools today, the focus has shifted from developing strong foundations to pursuing belt promotions and certifications.

Promotion has become the goal, rather than personal growth and transformation.

But fear not—there are solutions.

It is never too late to return to what matters most.

Demonstrate humility by continually refining the basics.

Honor technical precision over flashy performance.

Embrace discipline not as punishment, but as the pathway to freedom and self-control. 

A true martial artist never graduates from fundamentals.

The foundation is the path. And the path never ends.

Love and Light,

Mike Stone

Rokudan – 6th Degree Black Belt

Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Karate