Kempo_logo   Martial Arts   •   Westport, CT   |   Ridgefield/Wilton, CT  
   
   

Locations

Over the past 20 years, the Kempo Academy faculty have created a highly successful teaching technique that incorporates character building philosophies with traditional martial arts training methods. With younger students, we focus on helping them to understand and use the martial arts in order to develop self discipline, self control, and respect for others. We also help them to establish healthy life style habits at an early age. With older students, we enjoy sharing the secrets and intricacies of the Kempo system. Our unique style of traditional martial arts training, cardio workouts, and stress reducing stretching techniques, allow individuals to gain the physical benefits, confidence, and self assurance that can only be achieved through effective self defense training.

Ridgefield, CT Satellite Location - 203.431.2755 (Main Office)
195 Danbury Road (at the Ridgefield Parks & Rec Center)
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Email: kemporidgefield@gmail.com

Ridgefield Schedule

  • Faculty
  • Styles
  • Age Groups
  • Levels
Sensei Anthony Smetak
Sensei Smetak is the operator and chief instructor at our satellite location at the Ridgefield Parks & Recreation Center. Sensei Smetak is studying directly under the guidance of both Master Craigue and Sensei DeBarger and is also enrolled in the Instructors College for Martial Arts. He continues to serve as an assistant instructor at the KAMA schools in Westport and Wilton, CT. Sensei Smetak will begin instructing additional kickboxing classes in Ridgefield beginning early 2012. He has a daughter & son, both students at Kempo Academy. Prior his involvement with KAMA, he had worked for 15 years in the banking sector.

Kempo Academy is pleased to offer classes in each of the following martial arts styles; 

Kempo/Kenpo Karate & Kung Fu
(All ages)
Kempo is the art of in close fighting. The Kempo system is based on the Shaolin Ch'uan Fa system. It is a highly effective blend of Karate and Kung Fu techniques that offer an excellent form of self defense for all age groups. The goal at Kempo Academy is to teach students how to effectively use the Kempo technique to close the distance with an opponent and strike effectively. Please refer to our History for a more detailed history of the Kempo system. 

Specialized Kung Fu Systems
(Ages 12+)
Specialized Kung Fu systems are some of the more graceful and visually enjoyable martial arts systems. They are systems that focus on balance and awareness of surroundings. In comparison to the Kempo system, it can be much more physically demanding and a much longer road to self defense.

 Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is the art of grappling (hands on). It's primary focus is to teach students to break free from their opponents grip and strike back. Grappling is a natural compliment to the Kempo system and incorporated into all Kempo Academy Kempo programs.

Cardio Kickboxing
(Ages 10+)
Cardio Karate classes are 45 minutes in length and combine Karate, stretching, and kickboxing techniques into a highly effective cardio workout that burns hundreds of calories.

Kempo Academy classes are grouped by age. Each group is described below. Please refer to the individual 'Martial Arts' style descriptions to see if there are age restrictions within a given style.

Tiny Tigers
(Ages 3-4)
Tiny Dragons classes are private lessons attended twice per week. These classes are structured to introduce young children to martial arts through a very fun and rewarding experience. The program also begins to build a foundation of respect for others, hand-eye coordination, and self control.

Little Dragons
(Ages 5-6)
Little Dragons classes are 30 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes are structured to promote healthy habits for life including proper warm up, stretching, and cardio vascular exercise. The class also focuses on self control in a safe and fun atmosphere, conflict avoidance, and the foundation for learning effective self defense.

Pre-teens
(Ages 7-9)
Pre-teens classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes also promote healthy lifestyle habits while focusing on self discipline, self control, and effective self defense. The overall goal of the class is to promote strong and confident young adults.

Junior Adults
(Ages 10-14)
Junior adult classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes incorporate all of the elements mentioned above. Learning at this age group is concentrated on how to express one's self through the martial arts.

Adults
(Ages 15+)
Adult classes are 1 hour in length. Students attend two classes per week. Through these classes an individual will learn to; 1) focus on stress relief through stretching, 2) learn effective self defense techniques utilizing punches and kicks, and 3) combine these new skills into an effective cardio workout.

Class schedules will sometimes divide students into two groupings.

Beginning Level
Students that are White Belt to Blue Stripe Belt   

Advanced Level
Students ranked Green Belt and Higher

 
Darien, CT - 203.202.9201
551 Post Road
Darien, CT 06820
Email: KempoDarien@gmail.com

Darien Schedule
  • Faculty
  • Styles
  • Age Groups
  • Levels
Sensei Michael Nahan
Sensei Michael Nahan is the owner/manager and chief instructor at our Darien location. He has over 15 years of experience in the martial arts and has spent over 9 years under the guidance of Master Scott Craigue. Sensei Nahan has graduated from the Instructors College for Teaching of the Martial Arts (ICMA), and has also earned two bachelors degrees from Tulane University in New Orleans. His current national rankings include 2nd degree Black Belt in Chinese Kempo, Certified Kickboxing Instructor, and a Blue Sash in Tom Toy WaLum Kung Fu.

Kempo Academy is pleased to offer classes in each of the following martial arts styles; 

Kempo/Kenpo Karate & Kung Fu
(All ages)
Kempo is the art of in close fighting. The Kempo system is based on the Shaolin Ch'uan Fa system. It is a highly effective blend of Karate and Kung Fu techniques that offer an excellent form of self defense for all age groups. The goal at Kempo Academy is to teach students how to effectively use the Kempo technique to close the distance with an opponent and strike effectively. Please refer to our History for a more detailed history of the Kempo system. 

Specialized Kung Fu Systems
(Ages 12+)
Specialized Kung Fu systems are some of the more graceful and visually enjoyable martial arts systems. They are systems that focus on balance and awareness of surroundings. In comparison to the Kempo system, it can be much more physically demanding and a much longer road to self defense.

 Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is the art of grappling (hands on). It's primary focus is to teach students to break free from their opponents grip and strike back. Grappling is a natural compliment to the Kempo system and incorporated into all Kempo Academy Kempo programs.

Cardio Kickboxing
(Ages 10+)
Cardio Karate classes are 45 minutes in length and combine Karate, stretching, and kickboxing techniques into a highly effective cardio workout that burns hundreds of calories.

Kempo Academy classes are grouped by age. Each group is described below. Please refer to the individual 'Martial Arts' style descriptions to see if there are age restrictions within a given style.

Tiny Tigers
(Ages 3-4)
Tiny Dragons classes are private lessons attended twice per week. These classes are structured to introduce young children to martial arts through a very fun and rewarding experience. The program also begins to build a foundation of respect for others, hand-eye coordination, and self control.

Little Dragons
(Ages 5-6)
Little Dragons classes are 30 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes are structured to promote healthy habits for life including proper warm up, stretching, and cardio vascular exercise. The class also focuses on self control in a safe and fun atmosphere, conflict avoidance, and the foundation for learning effective self defense.

Pre-teens
(Ages 7-9)
Pre-teens classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes also promote healthy lifestyle habits while focusing on self discipline, self control, and effective self defense. The overall goal of the class is to promote strong and confident young adults.

Junior Adults
(Ages 10-14)
Junior adult classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes incorporate all of the elements mentioned above. Learning at this age group is concentrated on how to express one's self through the martial arts.

Adults
(Ages 15+)
Adult classes are 1 hour in length. Students attend two classes per week. Through these classes an individual will learn to; 1) focus on stress relief through stretching, 2) learn effective self defense techniques utilizing punches and kicks, and 3) combine these new skills into an effective cardio workout.

Class schedules will sometimes divide students into two groupings.

Beginning Level
Students that are White Belt to Blue Stripe Belt   

Advanced Level
Students ranked Green Belt and Higher

 
Fairfield, CT - 203.292.9777
1215 Post Road (In the Brickwalk Mall with Flair Fitness)
Fairfield, CT 06824
Email: Kempofairfield@gmail.com

Fairfield Schedule
  • Faculty
  • Styles
  • Age Groups
  • Levels
Sensei Thomas Wulffleff
Sensei Thomas Wulffleff is the owner/manager and chief instructor at our Fairfield location. Sensei Wulffleff has spent over 8 years studying martial arts at Kempo Academy and was one of the first students to receive a Black Sash in Tom Toy Wah Lum Kung fu under Master Craigue’s instruction. He has graduated from the Instructors College for Teaching of the Martial Arts (ICMA), is a Certified Kickboxing Instructor, and recently earned his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Connecticut. Sensei Wulffleff has also worked as an assistant instructor at the Ridgefield and Westport KAMA locations. Along with his Black Sash rank in Kung Fu, his current national ranking includes a 1st degree Black Belt in Chinese Kempo.

Kempo Academy is pleased to offer classes in each of the following martial arts styles; 

Kempo/Kenpo Karate & Kung Fu
(All ages)
Kempo is the art of in close fighting. The Kempo system is based on the Shaolin Ch'uan Fa system. It is a highly effective blend of Karate and Kung Fu techniques that offer an excellent form of self defense for all age groups. The goal at Kempo Academy is to teach students how to effectively use the Kempo technique to close the distance with an opponent and strike effectively. Please refer to our History for a more detailed history of the Kempo system. 

Specialized Kung Fu Systems
(Ages 12+)
Specialized Kung Fu systems are some of the more graceful and visually enjoyable martial arts systems. They are systems that focus on balance and awareness of surroundings. In comparison to the Kempo system, it can be much more physically demanding and a much longer road to self defense.

 Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is the art of grappling (hands on). It's primary focus is to teach students to break free from their opponents grip and strike back. Grappling is a natural compliment to the Kempo system and incorporated into all Kempo Academy Kempo programs.

Cardio Kickboxing
(Ages 10+)
Cardio Karate classes are 45 minutes in length and combine Karate, stretching, and kickboxing techniques into a highly effective cardio workout that burns hundreds of calories.

Kempo Academy classes are grouped by age. Each group is described below. Please refer to the individual 'Martial Arts' style descriptions to see if there are age restrictions within a given style.

Tiny Tigers
(Ages 3-4)
Tiny Dragons classes are private lessons attended twice per week. These classes are structured to introduce young children to martial arts through a very fun and rewarding experience. The program also begins to build a foundation of respect for others, hand-eye coordination, and self control.

Little Dragons
(Ages 5-6)
Little Dragons classes are 30 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes are structured to promote healthy habits for life including proper warm up, stretching, and cardio vascular exercise. The class also focuses on self control in a safe and fun atmosphere, conflict avoidance, and the foundation for learning effective self defense.

Pre-teens
(Ages 7-9)
Pre-teens classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes also promote healthy lifestyle habits while focusing on self discipline, self control, and effective self defense. The overall goal of the class is to promote strong and confident young adults.

Junior Adults
(Ages 10-14)
Junior adult classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes incorporate all of the elements mentioned above. Learning at this age group is concentrated on how to express one's self through the martial arts.

Adults
(Ages 15+)
Adult classes are 1 hour in length. Students attend two classes per week. Through these classes an individual will learn to; 1) focus on stress relief through stretching, 2) learn effective self defense techniques utilizing punches and kicks, and 3) combine these new skills into an effective cardio workout.

Class schedules will sometimes divide students into two groupings.

Beginning Level
Students that are White Belt to Blue Stripe Belt   

Advanced Level
Students ranked Green Belt and Higher

 
Wilton, CT - 203.544.2225
991 Danbury Road
Wilton, CT 06897
Email: kempowilton@hotmail.com

Wilton Schedule
  • Faculty
  • Styles
  • Age Groups
  • Levels
Master Scott Craigue
Master Scott Craigue is the owner/manager and chief instructor at our Ridgefield location. Master Craigue has over 32 years experience in the martial arts. Through his years of extensive study and training he has achieved 7th degree master level black belt in Chinese Kempo. The diversity of his martial arts skills are evidenced by his 3rd degree black belt in American Kenpo and black sash in Chinese Kung Fu. Master Craigue's tournament accomplishments include several national sparring championships and several national weapons championships.

Kempo Academy is pleased to offer classes in each of the following martial arts styles; 

Kempo/Kenpo Karate & Kung Fu
(All ages)
Kempo is the art of in close fighting. The Kempo system is based on the Shaolin Ch'uan Fa system. It is a highly effective blend of Karate and Kung Fu techniques that offer an excellent form of self defense for all age groups. The goal at Kempo Academy is to teach students how to effectively use the Kempo technique to close the distance with an opponent and strike effectively. Please refer to our History for a more detailed history of the Kempo system. 

Specialized Kung Fu Systems
(Ages 12+)
Specialized Kung Fu systems are some of the more graceful and visually enjoyable martial arts systems. They are systems that focus on balance and awareness of surroundings. In comparison to the Kempo system, it can be much more physically demanding and a much longer road to self defense.

 Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is the art of grappling (hands on). It's primary focus is to teach students to break free from their opponents grip and strike back. Grappling is a natural compliment to the Kempo system and incorporated into all Kempo Academy Kempo programs.

Cardio Kickboxing
(Ages 10+)
Cardio Karate classes are 45 minutes in length and combine Karate, stretching, and kickboxing techniques into a highly effective cardio workout that burns hundreds of calories.

Kempo Academy classes are grouped by age. Each group is described below. Please refer to the individual 'Martial Arts' style descriptions to see if there are age restrictions within a given style.

Tiny Tigers
(Ages 3-4)
Tiny Dragons classes are private lessons attended twice per week. These classes are structured to introduce young children to martial arts through a very fun and rewarding experience. The program also begins to build a foundation of respect for others, hand-eye coordination, and self control.

Little Dragons
(Ages 5-6)
Little Dragons classes are 30 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes are structured to promote healthy habits for life including proper warm up, stretching, and cardio vascular exercise. The class also focuses on self control in a safe and fun atmosphere, conflict avoidance, and the foundation for learning effective self defense.

Pre-teens
(Ages 7-9)
Pre-teens classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes also promote healthy lifestyle habits while focusing on self discipline, self control, and effective self defense. The overall goal of the class is to promote strong and confident young adults.

Junior Adults
(Ages 10-14)
Junior adult classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes incorporate all of the elements mentioned above. Learning at this age group is concentrated on how to express one's self through the martial arts.

Adults
(Ages 15+)
Adult classes are 1 hour in length. Students attend two classes per week. Through these classes an individual will learn to; 1) focus on stress relief through stretching, 2) learn effective self defense techniques utilizing punches and kicks, and 3) combine these new skills into an effective cardio workout.

Class schedules will sometimes divide students into two groupings.

Beginning Level
Students that are White Belt to Blue Stripe Belt   

Advanced Level
Students ranked Green Belt and Higher

 
Westport, CT - 203.557.0257
374B Post Road East (In back of the Trader Joe’s Mall)
Westport, CT 06880
Email: kempowestport@gmail.com

Westport Schedule
  • Faculty
  • Classes
  • Age Groups
  • Levels
  • Newsletter
  • Merchandise
Sensei Douglas DeBarger
Sensei Douglas DeBarger is the owner/manager and chief instructor at our Westport location. Sensei DeBarger has spent over 10 years studying under the guidance of Master Scott Craigue, and has Graduated from the Instructors College for Teaching of the Martial Arts (ICMA). Sensei DeBarger has also served as an assistant instructor at the KAMA schools in Ridgefield and Norwalk CT. His current national rankings include 4th degree Black Belt in Chinese Kempo, Certified Kickboxing Instructor, and working toward his Black Sash in Tom Toy Wa Lum Kung Fu.

Kempo Academy is pleased to offer classes in each of the following martial arts styles; 

Shaolin Kempo 
(Junior Adult and Adult) 
Kempo is the art of in close fighting. The Kempo system is based on the Shaolin Ch'uan Fa system. It is a highly effective blend of Karate and Kung Fu techniques that offer an excellent form of self defense for all age groups. The goal at Kempo Academy is to teach students how to effectively use the Kempo technique to close the distance with an opponent and strike effectively. Please refer to our History for a more detailed history of the Kempo system. 

Junior Black Belt Kempo Classes
(Tiny Tigers, Little Dragons, Pre-teens)
The children who join Kempo Academy will enter into our Junior Black Belt program. Students learn and practice Shaolin Kempo from White belt to Junior Black Belt. There are 12 belt ranks.  The students will learn Defensive maneuvers called “combinations”.  These are numbered from 1 – 26 with 3 combinations having alternate versions for a total of 29 combinations.  These combinations along with the fitness training, stances, punching, kicking, and blocking systems are part of the junior black belt curriculum.  We also have activities that range from games to self control practice.  A student who attends class 2 times per week can progress from white to Black Belt in about 3 years.

Bonus Material
In addition to the material that we teach in the Junior Black Belt curriculum, we also teach the adult level curriculum to students who demonstrate the aptitude and readiness for the additional work.  Junior Black Belts will learn Combinations 1-26 and 8 point blocking.  The adult curriculum also includes 23 Kempo maneuvers, 24 Jiu Jitsu techniques, 10 point blocking, and 11 kata forms.  All of our techniques are taught in their original movements.  In some cases we will teach alternate techniques that are more practical in practice than the original movements.

Competition Sparring
Sparring is a style of fighting.  The goal of which is to score points by making contact with point zones on the opponents body.  It is a rough form of tag.  Students are required to wear protective padding during all practices and competitions.  Sparring is a bonus class at Kempo Academy.  A member who attends class 2 times per week can participate in sparring class at no charge.  There is however a onetime charge for the sparring gear that each student needs for the class.

Punching in
Punching in is a practice technique in which two students will practice their karate maneuvers on each other.  This is the most useful and practical way of learning Kempo.  We want to prevent any injuries from happening during this practice.  The students at lower ranks will be limited in their contact force.  As students achieve higher ranking and expertise they will learn to punch in more forcefully.  The goal of punching in is to learn to apply your Kempo knowledge on opponents of all sizes and shapes.

Tournaments
Kempo Academy hosts a tournament every year.  We also receive invitations from other Kempo Schools in the region to participate in their tournaments.  Every student member is encouraged to participate in these events.  We offer competition in Defensive Manuvers, Kata Forms, Sparring, Kung fu hand forms, and Kung fu weapon forms.  Competition is broken down by age ranges and belt ranges.  All participants receive trophies as a reward for competing.  There are also demonstrations by the Black belt instructors and the Demo Team.  These are great events to go to and see other people and how they apply their Martial Arts skills.

Private Lessons
Kempo Academy offers private lessons.  These lessons are 30 minutes in length.  They are tailored to fit the needs of the student. 

  • Fitness
  • Martial arts techniques
  • Special needs curriculum
  • Self Control
  • Preparation classes to enter the group lessons

Demo Team
The Demo Team at Kempo Academy is called “The Five Animals”.  The members of the team will perform at our annual tournament, and at various activities we sponsor through out the year.  Participation in the class is open to any student who is interested in learning new and special martial arts material that is outside of the Kempo curriculum.  Class participation does not guarantee a position as one of the Five Animals on the team.  We hold tryouts in February and 5 primary team members with 5 alternates will be named. This class is counted as 1 of the regular group classes. The demo team wears a special uniform which is an additional charge.

MMA training
We offer MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) workouts.   We set up a circuit of hardcore training, punching and kicking excercises to help build strength and endurance.  We also Teach Brazilian Jiu Jitsu/Grappling techniques.  This class is available at no additional charge on a trial basis for 1 month and counted as a group class.  After 1 month the class has a separate agreement and costs from the Kempo agreement and costs.

Kung-fu/ Hand forms and Weapons
We teach Tom Toy Wah Lum Kung Fu, and Fu Jao Pai (Black Tiger Claw) Kung fu styles.  These hand and weapon forms are only available to school members.  The training is the most rigorous we offer.  Kung fu is the Dance of the Martial arts.  Kung fu is scheduled and charged as a private lesson.

Kempo Academy classes are grouped by age. Each group is described below. Please refer to the individual 'Martial Arts' style descriptions to see if there are age restrictions within a given style.

Tiny Tigers
(Ages 3-4)
Tiny Dragons classes are private lessons attended twice per week. These classes are structured to introduce young children to martial arts through a very fun and rewarding experience. The program also begins to build a foundation of respect for others, hand-eye coordination, and self control.

Little Dragons
(Ages 5-6)
Little Dragons classes are 30 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes are structured to promote healthy habits for life including proper warm up, stretching, and cardio vascular exercise. The class also focuses on self control in a safe and fun atmosphere, conflict avoidance, and the foundation for learning effective self defense.

Pre-teens
(Ages 7-9)
Pre-teens classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes also promote healthy lifestyle habits while focusing on self discipline, self control, and effective self defense. The overall goal of the class is to promote strong and confident young adults.

Junior Adults
(Ages 10-14)
Junior adult classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes incorporate all of the elements mentioned above. Learning at this age group is concentrated on how to express one's self through the martial arts.

Adults
(Ages 15+)
Adult classes are 1 hour in length. Students attend two classes per week. Through these classes an individual will learn to; 1) focus on stress relief through stretching, 2) learn effective self defense techniques utilizing punches and kicks, and 3) combine these new skills into an effective cardio workout.

Class schedules will sometimes divide students into two groupings.

Beginning Level
Students that are White Belt to Blue Stripe Belt   

Advanced Level
Students ranked Green Belt and Higher

Upcoming Dates
There are two test dates for December:

  • December 12 @ 2pm
  • December 18 @ 4pm

Those of you who are eligible for belt rank testing will receive an invitation this week.

I will be out of town between Christmas and New Years.  I will have classes covered by Sensei Pratt and Sensei Nahan.  If there are any schedule changes, I will let you know.

Student Referral Incentive plans
Membership has its privileges and referrals have a reward.
Bring A Buddy Plan – If you bring in a friend to Kempo Academy and they sign up for classes you will win a Kempo Academy Jean Jacket with an embroidered logo of Kempo Academy on the back.

Holiday Gifts For sale
Grab a copy of the Century Martial arts holiday catalogue next time you are in class.

  • Belt rack to store your belts as you progress through the ranks
    Custom made rack holds all 12 ranks from white belt through black belt
    $150.00
  • Cardio Kickboxing 10 lessons
    1 month of lessons plus gloves
    $99.00
  • Kempo Karate 8 lessons
    1 month of lessons plus uniform (shirt, pants, and belt)
    $99.00
  • We also have gift certificates available

Snow Days
As we approach winter, Kempo Academy in Westport will be following the same closing schedule as the Westport School system.  If they are closed for weather reasons we will be too.  Please watch local news for closing announcements.

Merchandise coming soon!

 
Cherry Hill, NJ - 856.616.8649
1461 Brace Road
Cherry Hill, NJ
Email: mrssenseismith@kempoacademy.com

Cherry Hill Schedule
  • Faculty
  • Styles
  • Age Groups
  • Levels
Sensei Michael Smith
Sensei Michael Smith is the owner/manager and chief instructor at our Cherry hill location. Sensei Smith has studied extensively under the guidance of Master Scott Craigue, including graduating from the Instructors College for Teaching of the Martial Arts (ICMA). Sensei Smith has also served as assistant instructor at martial arts schools in Ridgefield and Norwalk CT. His current national rankings include 3rd degree Black Belt in Kempo and Red Sash in Tom Toy Wa Lum Kung Fu. His strong commitment to building character with today's youth can be seen over the past twenty years through his dedication to various community activities including teaching Junior Achievement programs to inner city youth. Now Sensei Smith brings his commitment and tremendous enthusiasm to children and adult martial arts learning to the Cherry Hill area.

Sensei Laurie Smith
Sensei Smith is an instructor and co-owner at our Cherry Hill location.  Sensei Smith has studied directly under the guidance of Master Craigue and Sensei Smith for the last eight years. In addition to instructing in Kempo she is the chief kickboxing instructor at our Cherry Hill studio. Sensei Smith is a graduate of the Instructors College for Martial Arts, currently holds a first degree black belt in Kempo, and is working toward her black sash in Tom Toy Wa Lum kung fu.

Kempo Academy is pleased to offer classes in each of the following martial arts styles; 

Kempo/Kenpo Karate & Kung Fu
(All ages)
Kempo is the art of in close fighting. The Kempo system is based on the Shaolin Ch'uan Fa system. It is a highly effective blend of Karate and Kung Fu techniques that offer an excellent form of self defense for all age groups. The goal at Kempo Academy is to teach students how to effectively use the Kempo technique to close the distance with an opponent and strike effectively. Please refer to our History for a more detailed history of the Kempo system. 

Specialized Kung Fu Systems
(Ages 12+)
Specialized Kung Fu systems are some of the more graceful and visually enjoyable martial arts systems. They are systems that focus on balance and awareness of surroundings. In comparison to the Kempo system, it can be much more physically demanding and a much longer road to self defense.

 Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu is the art of grappling (hands on) . It's primary focus is to teach students to break free from their opponents grip and strike back. Grappling is a natural compliment to the Kempo system and incorporated into all Kempo Academy Kempo programs.

Cardio Kickboxing
(Ages 10+)
Cardio Karate classes are 45 minutes in length and combine Karate, stretching, and kickboxing techniques into a highly effective cardio workout that burns hundreds of calories.

Kempo Academy classes are grouped by age. Each group is described below. Please refer to the individual 'Martial Arts' style descriptions to see if there are age restrictions within a given style.

Tiny Tigers
(Ages 3-4)
Tiny Dragons classes are private lessons attended twice per week. These classes are structured to introduce young children to martial arts through a very fun and rewarding experience. The program also begins to build a foundation of respect for others, hand-eye coordination, and self control.

Little Dragons
(Ages 5-6)
Little Dragons classes are 30 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes are structured to promote healthy habits for life including proper warm up, stretching, and cardio vascular exercise. The class also focuses on self control in a safe and fun atmosphere, conflict avoidance, and the foundation for learning effective self defense.

Pre-teens
(Ages 7-9)
Pre-teens classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes also promote healthy lifestyle habits while focusing on self discipline, self control, and effective self defense. The overall goal of the class is to promote strong and confident young adults.

Junior Adults
(Ages 10-14)
Junior adult classes are 45 minutes in length. Students attend two sessions per week. These classes incorporate all of the elements mentioned above. Learning at this age group is concentrated on how to express one's self through the martial arts.

Adults
(Ages 15+)
Adult classes are 1 hour in length. Students attend two classes per week. Through these classes an individual will learn to; 1) focus on stress relief through stretching, 2) learn effective self defense techniques utilizing punches and kicks, and 3) combine these new skills into an effective cardio workout.

Class schedules will sometimes divide students into two groupings.

Beginning Level
Students that are White Belt to Blue Stripe Belt   

Advanced Level
Students ranked Green Belt and Higher