Shaolin Kempo Karate

Shaolin Kung Fu

Shaolin Kung Fu is where many consider all forms of martial arts first developed. Originally developed in China and was designed for internal and external exercise to help better the health and minds of the Buddhist Monks. Kung Fu over the centuries slowly evolved into a system of self-defense, based on the everyday movements of animals in their natural environments. Each animal has its own place and own way of survival. The animals bring a variety of movements, to not only enhance defensive skills, but develop health and flexibility as well. Kung Fu uses many quick hand movements and circular strikes. It focuses on defense with the hands, low kicks, and internal energy instead of brute force. The original five animals are the Tiger, Snake, Crane, Dragon, Leopard. This system of self defense makes it easier for those who find it difficult to utilize high kicks and want to focus on the healing effect of martial arts.

Karate

Karate is a system of self defense that originated in Okinawa. Like other arts of its time, it has a strong focus on high kicks and linear conditioning. Most of its focus, in terms of self defense, is the idea that one should finish the assault with one blow. In order to make this possible, the Karate student had to endure long hours of training and dedication.

Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu, translated as “gentle art,” was developed in Japan and consists of wrist and joint lock manipulation, pressure point striking, and body throws. This system of self defense gives the weaker opponent the ability to overcome the bigger, stronger opponent without the need of superior strength. It was designed to take the opponents own strength and to use it against them. This allows one to defend themselves without the need to punch or kick the opponent and defend without inflicting permanent damage. This is what makes Jiu-Jitsu essential for a well rounded martial artist or someone simply interested in self-defense.