(from Mr. Conatser's Facebook page 8-20-22)
The Kenpo Syllabus FGM Parker created was established as a beginning "guide" for Instructors and students. The 3 major categories are:
Basics
Self Defense Techniques
Forms & Sets
Basics being the KEY ingredient within all aspects of development.
I've observed that much attention is given to learning the established hypothetical Technique "drills" which is necessary in the beginning to establish a strong Base of coordination, skill, and knowledge.
As we advance in knowledge and skill, we must realize that continual attention to all our "DRILLS" is a never ending process. (This is that -always remain a student- saying you always hear about).
I'd like to focus this [C'Mon Maaan] particularly on the "application result" or FINALIZATION of our techniques.
Yes, EPAK is quite an expansive Art with much to learn, digest, consider, train, APPLY and FINALIZE prior, during or after a confrontation or situation.
FGM Ed Parker's Kenpo is a "continual process of renewal and expansion".
Not just repetition of the base movements, rather greater understanding and mindset of our desired outcome.
My focus is, regardless of exactly which moves or combinations you execute to defend yourself during a situation, the "end result" is to control, or disable any further exchange of action, and escape unharmed as minimally as possible.
In the more advanced levels of application, I utilize the base techniques from Yellow Belt on and add or (graft) a Finalization] series which is a TAKEDOWN or BUCKLE.
Many of our base drills focus on other developmental aspects, which is necessary initially, however, ultimately you want your opponent/s not only hindered but controlled and completely dominated into submission.
Regardless of the "type" of takedown you choose (I hope you develop a variety), you must finish your opponent and greatly hinder or eliminate any further response so as to escape this opponent or potentially have to deal with additional attackers.
I teach a variety of take/ strike down maneuvers and ultimately let the student decide which is best per a specific technique situation. This is easily accomplished by practicing the established syllabus with the addition of a finalization maneuver to each technique that is unscripted and added by the student.
In closing, I firmly believe this course of training and skill acquisition will greatly enhance our odds of success in application.
Now get back on the mat and instruct, create and continue to practice these concepts until you acquire/develop the additional tools needed in your repertoire.
