Mr. Parker's answer when asked about his first instructor and system

"What about your first instructor, what system did you go into in the beginning?"

"Well I studied, I studied Kenpo. But the man I studied with was an extremely interesting guy because although he had studied from his father and picked up knowledge and swapped it with other people, he came to the realization that much of what taught in the Orient, though it was very inclusive, wasn't yet rearranged to suit modern day context. So he found that there is a lot of changes needed in order to make it work in our present day environment. And it was because of him that I began to think this way from my early years. 

Now when I first started here in the United States and had a lot of traditionalist come in I was a rebel as far as they were concerned. But you know, it's, it's the guy that comes out in the end that really counts.

And being a street fighter myself I went along with this train of thought." - Mr. Parker

Mr. Conatser on the base techniques of Mr. Parker's system

(recently posted on Facebook by Mr. Conatser)

In the beginning...there was FGM Ed Parker's kenpo in which the Tracy's were taught up until they left.

As Doc (Dr. Ron Chapel) stated FGM Parker was constantly evolving the system.

Organized, the original 32 that morphed into the 24 technique syllabus in late '78 had no a, b, c, d's ... rather there were single techniques as a "base" , then as the more experienced students moved up they were encouraged to make up their own hypothetical variations. The Base remained the same as a BASE.

I came up with the term "variable expansion" to express this concept.

Also, it was encouraged to study a "comparative analysis" of all the BASE techniques, forms & sets.

Rather than spend a lifetime on 400+ techniques... FGM Parker wanted the students to expand and tailor their material to themselves without destroying the "BASE".

The alphabet we learned (a-z) in early schooling has remained the same for centuries yet every year new definitions, spellings or words created from the original 26. Same idea as American Kenpo.

Those that "truly knew and studied with him" more than a few months know that he never "deleted" things but filed them for possible future use or reference. Rather, he chose to "simply expand" his BASE with any new ideas, concepts or material.

Photos of Fusae Mitose

Some say James Mitose's kenpo was no good. That he was a con-man more than a martial artist.

His sister Fusae was also a black belt and taught, it would be interesting to know if she was better than her brother. 

A classic Gil Hibben Kenpo Karate knife for sale

Not sure of the availability, price, or details. It looks like you have to create an account to see more information, etc.

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/kenpo-karate-commemorative-knife-gil-1871857680

The Kiss of the Dragon

Most kenpo students will receive something extra with their next belt promotion. In addition to a new belt or extra stripe they usually receive a kick or a punch to the gut from their teacher. Sometimes other instructors or black belts at the test will join in on the fun as well.

Sometimes referred to as "The Kiss of the Dragon", the severity of the kick or punch increases as the rank increases. A kick or a punch for a student receiving their black belt will have more force behind it compared to one given to a new green belt or brown belt.

As evident in the photo above, Mr. Parker seems to be at full strength as he kicks new black belt Berry Elwood in 1975. 

Even more interesting is Mr. Parker is throwing a side thrust instead of the normal front kick that we are used to seeing today. 

Apparently back in the day it was first a back kick, then it changed to a side kick and now most often we see front kicks.

You will even see punches and other strikes used during promotions. Legend has it during a promotion Steve Sanders was chopped in the side of his neck by Mr. Parker.

Twirling Hammers, complete Breakdown

Mr. Tatum on Kenpo Forms

(posted recently on Facebook by Mr. Tatum)

Kenpo forms, also known as kata (Japanese term), are an integral part of training in this system. 

Beyond being mere sequences of movements, Kenpo shapes encapsulate a wealth of techniques and concepts essential to the practitioner. 

Within each form there are seemingly simple but meaningful movements and practical application in real combat situations.

One of the most intriguing features of Kenpo shapes is the presence of hidden movements, also known as "secret movements". 

These movements are those that are not obvious at first sight, requiring careful analysis and meticulous practice to discover their usefulness and applicability. 

They can be subtle deviations, hidden blocks, or strategic counter-collapses that are ingeniously integrated into the sequence of the shape.

The importance of thoroughly investigating the hidden content in Kenpo forms lies in the development of the practitioner's understanding and skill. 

By discovering and understanding these hidden movements, the practitioner acquires a deeper knowledge of the techniques, as well as a more comprehensive appreciation of the philosophy and principles underlying kenpo.

In addition, the exploration of hidden movements promotes creativity and adaptability in combat. By understanding how movements in a form can be transformed into effective responses to different situations and attacks, the practitioner develops the ability to improvise and respond effectively in a real confrontation.

In short, Kenpo's shapes offer much more than just sequences of movements. They are true deposits of knowledge and wisdom, teaching not only combat techniques, but also values such as perseverance, discipline and the constant pursuit of excellence. 

A thorough investigation of the hidden contents of Kenpo's forms is crucial to unlocking his full potential and reaching true mastery in this martial art.