Photo: Ambrose Maloney (IKKU President), Luis Gonzalez, Ed Parker (Kenpo Founder) and Roy MacDonald. 1980.

Developed in the 1950's by its American founder, Ed Parker, Kenpo is a blend of several older martial arts systems, primarily, Chinese Kung Fu and Jiu Jitsu, up-dated into a highly effective style of self defence that is formulated specifically for the modern, street-attack situation.

Today Kenpo is one of the most popular martial arts worldwide. An important feature of the art is its adaptability to suit the individual student. It is therefore suitable for male and female, children and adults, young and not-so-young alike, with each student achieving personal goals under the tutelage of black belt instructors.

The benefits of practice far exceed the ability to defend oneself in a threatening situation. The health benefits of physical fitness, increased stamina and joint flexibility are there for all to enjoy in Kenpo. Enhanced self-confidence and self-discipline are naturally developed as one progresses through the system, and character building is an important aspect for the younger practitioner. For the more competitive there is ample opportunity to compete at a National, European and even World level.