Why the 10 Laws Matter
Kenpo Karate is a martial art built on adaptability, efficiency, and practicality. Unlike traditional karate systems that emphasize rigid forms, Kenpo evolves with the needs of the practitioner. Its philosophy is summarized in the 10 Laws of Kenpo, which act as guiding principles for combat, self-defense, and personal development.
These laws aren’t just fighting strategies—they are lessons in discipline, awareness, and the mind-body-spirit connection that defines martial arts.
1. Circle vs. Line
Kenpo teaches that movement should adapt to the opponent’s attack:
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If the opponent charges in a straight line, use circular movement to evade and counter.
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If the attack is circular, respond with a direct, linear strike.
This balance of circle and line demonstrates how efficiency and redirection can overcome brute force.
2. Strike First
Kenpo is primarily a striking art (70% hands, 30% feet). The law of striking first has two meanings:
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Kenpo emphasizes striking as the foundation of combat.
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If confrontation is unavoidable, act decisively—strike before you’re struck, and strike with power and continuity until the threat is neutralized.
3. Multiple Strikes and Kicks
Kenpo stresses rapid combinations over single attacks.
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First strikes → stun or distract.
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Later strikes → deliver decisive power.
This rapid-fire approach makes Kenpo effective in real-world self-defense situations, especially against multiple attackers.
4. Strike to Soft Targets
Efficiency means targeting vulnerable points:
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Temple, nose, throat, solar plexus, stomach, groin, and ribs.
Instead of conditioning the body to withstand damage, Kenpo follows the path of least resistance—using precision to end conflicts quickly.
5. Kick Low
While high kicks look impressive, Kenpo emphasizes low, effective kicks:
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Faster execution.
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Reduced exposure to counterattacks.
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Disrupting balance by attacking the legs (pillar attack).
Low kicks are practical, powerful, and aligned with Kenpo’s philosophy of realism in combat.
6. The No-Block Principle
Kenpo values economy of movement. Instead of wasting energy blocking, the principle is:
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Avoid if possible.
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Deflect and counter simultaneously.
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Use blocks only when escape isn’t possible.
As the Shaolin saying goes: “Avoid rather than check; check rather than block; block rather than strike.”
7. Hard vs. Soft / Soft vs. Hard
Kenpo applies the yin-yang principle:
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Respond softly to hard attacks.
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Respond hard to soft attacks.
This adaptability ensures energy is used efficiently while keeping the practitioner unpredictable.
8. Mobility
A moving target is harder to hit. Kenpo categorizes fighters as:
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Statues: rigid, easy to target.
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Runners: avoidant, but predictable.
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Steamrollers: relentless, but exposed.
Kenpo teaches balance—move constantly but strategically to gain the superior position.
9. Upright Stances and Flexibility
Kenpo recognizes that every practitioner is different:
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Tall → advantage in kicks.
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Short → advantage in hand speed.
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Heavy → advantage in grappling.
The law of flexibility teaches students to adapt Kenpo to their body type and personality, not force themselves into one rigid style.
10. Warrior Spirit
Kenpo’s final law emphasizes both external ferocity and inner calm:
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Outwardly → confidence, strong stance, powerful kiai.
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Inwardly → peace, acceptance, and clarity.
The true warrior spirit balances courage with restraint, making mindset as important as physical skill.
Putting the 10 Laws Into Practice
The 10 Laws of Kenpo Karate serve as a framework for students of all levels. They are not absolute rules, but guiding keys to unlock higher martial understanding.
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For kids martial arts classes, these principles build confidence, focus, and discipline.
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For adults, they provide practical self-defense and stress management.
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For martial artists of all ages, they offer a roadmap for lifelong growth.
Conclusion: The Key to Kenpo Mastery
Kenpo Karate is more than a striking system—it’s a philosophy of adaptability, efficiency, and personal development. By embracing the 10 Laws of Kenpo, practitioners learn not only how to defend themselves, but also how to move, think, and live with discipline and purpose.
Whether you’re training for self-defense, fitness, or personal mastery, Kenpo provides the tools to balance mind, body, and spirit.