The term kenpo is the union of two Japanse words: Ken (first) and Po (law). Like all martial arts it seeks control over mind and body. Concentration and self-control are fundamental for perfecting the physical aspect, the goal of which is to respond quickly and efficiently to an attack.

It is a tough martial art, composed of a series of techniques and defensive movements (katas) for fending off an attack. The interesting thing about kenpo is the variety of means of defense to which it resorts. It is a kind of anything-goes technique in which you can use kicks, punches, elbows, knees, strangleholds and many other blows in which you can use practically the whole body, nearby objects and weapons.

Adapted to each person
It is important to keep in mind that each person applies techniques suited to his or her physical features and knowledge. So the efficiency of the techniques is not determined by strength or height. This means people of any sex, build, height and strength can practice this martial art.

As for technique, there are three principles to follow:
- Continuity for movements of the body are fluid
- Economy of movement
- Intermittent use of energy to use it most efficiently at the proper time.

Union of body and mind
Kempo is practiced in many ways. For instance, there is Shorinji Kempo, Kosho Ryu Kempo, Kara-ho Kempo Chinese Karate, Shaolin Kempo Karate, American Kenpo Karate, Kajukenbo and others.

What distinguishes Kempo from boxing or other kinds of defense fighting is that it is not just a way to knock down the enemy with techniques or weapons. It is a martial art that seeks unity fo body and mind and achievement of peace with one�s self and the universe.

According to the philosophy of Kempo, man should face the problems and difficulties of life in the same way he faces happiness. The idea is to live each moment fully as we carry out actions and put our heart into it.

Fans in Spain
In our country, there are more and more fans of this martial art, which borrows many techniques and skills from other martial arts. There is the Asociaci�n Espa�ola de Kempo-Contact (kempocontact.iespana.es Telephone: 607 781 005), the Asociaci�n Espa�ola de Shaolin Kenpo ([email protected]) and the Asociaci�n de kajukenbo Espa�ol (Telephone: 91 885 93 77).