Kenpo Books

Kenpo, also spelled Kempo, is a dynamic martial art with roots in ancient China and Japan, characterized by its fluid and rapid movements, versatile techniques, and practical self-defense applications. Translating to "the way of the fist" or "the law of the fist," Kenpo embodies a rich history of adaptation, innovation, and cultural exchange.

The origins of Kenpo can be traced back to the Shaolin Temple in China, where Buddhist monks developed a system of self-defense to protect themselves from bandits and marauders. These early fighting techniques, known as Shaolin Kung Fu, laid the groundwork for the development of Kenpo and other martial arts systems.

During the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), Shaolin Kung Fu spread throughout China, eventually making its way to the Ryukyu Kingdom (present-day Okinawa, Japan) through trade and cultural exchange. In Okinawa, Shaolin Kung Fu merged with indigenous martial arts, resulting in the development of new hybrid systems, including Kenpo.

With the annexation of Okinawa by Japan in the late 19th century, Kenpo underwent further development and standardization. Japanese martial artists, including Choki Motobu and Gichin Funakoshi, played pivotal roles in promoting and popularizing Kenpo on the Japanese mainland and beyond.

In the modern era, Kenpo continued to evolve and adapt to changing times and circumstances. American Kenpo, developed by Ed Parker in the mid-20th century, introduced innovations such as the concept of "motion principles" and emphasized practical self-defense techniques suited for modern urban environments.

Today, Kenpo is practiced and taught worldwide, with a multitude of styles, schools, and organizations dedicated to its study and preservation. Its curriculum typically includes striking, kicking, blocking, joint locks, and grappling techniques, as well as kata (pre-arranged forms) and sparring drills.

Kenpo training emphasizes practicality, adaptability, and the development of physical fitness, mental focus, and self-discipline. Its techniques are designed to be effective in real-life self-defense situations, making Kenpo a popular choice for individuals seeking practical and comprehensive martial arts training.

Our store offers a curated selection of Kenpo books that delve into its history, techniques, and philosophy. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Kenpo, these books provide invaluable insights into the rich and dynamic world of this ancient martial art. Explore our collection and deepen your understanding and appreciation of Kenpo's timeless legacy and enduring relevance.

Sam Pai Kenpo Book by Michael Persons (Revised Edition)

Sam Pai Kenpo Book by Michael Persons (Revised Edition)

Regular price $50.00 CAD
Regular price $64.00 CAD Sale price $50.00 CAD
Advanced Kenpo Karate Book by Jay Will

Advanced Kenpo Karate Book by Jay Will

Regular price $56.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $56.00 CAD
Kenpo Karate for Self-Defense Book by Jay Will (Preowned)

Kenpo Karate for Self-Defense Book by Jay Will (Preowned)

Regular price $56.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $56.00 CAD
The Kenpo Karate Compendium: The Forms and Sets of American Kenpo Book by Lee Wedlake

The Kenpo Karate Compendium: The Forms and Sets of American Kenpo Book by Lee Wedlake

Regular price $43.00 CAD
Regular price $57.00 CAD Sale price $43.00 CAD
Kenpo Companion Book by Lee Wedlake

Kenpo Companion Book by Lee Wedlake

Regular price $43.00 CAD
Regular price $57.00 CAD Sale price $43.00 CAD
Lessons with Ed Parker: 2024 Edition Book by Lee Wedlake

Lessons with Ed Parker: 2024 Edition Book by Lee Wedlake

Regular price $36.00 CAD
Regular price $50.00 CAD Sale price $36.00 CAD
Kenpo 360: The Beginner's Guide to Self Defense Book by Michael Valenti

Kenpo 360: The Beginner's Guide to Self Defense Book by Michael Valenti

Regular price $50.00 CAD
Regular price $57.00 CAD Sale price $50.00 CAD
Learn Japanese Kempo Book by Yutaka Dohi

Learn Japanese Kempo Book by Yutaka Dohi

Regular price $36.00 CAD
Regular price $56.00 CAD Sale price $36.00 CAD
Nipponden Shinto Tenshin Koryu Kempo (Hardcover)(Preowned)

Nipponden Shinto Tenshin Koryu Kempo (Hardcover)(Preowned)

Regular price $169.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $169.00 CAD
Chinese Kung Fu (Kenpo) Book by William D Scott (Hardcover)(Preowned)

Chinese Kung Fu (Kenpo) Book by William D Scott (Hardcover)(Preowned)

Regular price $50.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $50.00 CAD
Kosho Ryu the Collection Book by Bruce Juchnik (Hardcover) (Preowned)

Kosho Ryu the Collection Book by Bruce Juchnik (Hardcover) (Preowned)

Regular price $140.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $140.00 CAD
What is Self Defense? Book by James Mitose (1st Edition) (Preowned)

What is Self Defense? Book by James Mitose (1st Edition) (Preowned)

Regular price $706.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $706.00 CAD
The Zen of Kenpo: Meanignful Quotes from the Teachings of Ed Parker Book (Preowned) - Budovideos

The Zen of Kenpo: Meanignful Quotes from the Teachings of Ed Parker Book (Preowned)

Regular price $24.00 CAD
Regular price $27.00 CAD Sale price $24.00 CAD
Kenpo Perspectives: The Diversity of American Kenpo Book by Michael Miller

Kenpo Perspectives: The Diversity of American Kenpo Book by Michael Miller

Regular price $43.00 CAD
Regular price $57.00 CAD Sale price $43.00 CAD
Infinite Insights Into Kenpo Book 5 Book Set by Ed Parker (Preowned)

Infinite Insights Into Kenpo Book 5 Book Set by Ed Parker (Preowned)

Regular price $85.00 CAD
Regular price $98.00 CAD Sale price $85.00 CAD
Shaolin Kempo United Studios of Self Defense Book (Preowned)

Shaolin Kempo United Studios of Self Defense Book (Preowned)

Regular price $29.00 CAD
Regular price $41.00 CAD Sale price $29.00 CAD
Ed Parker's Guide to the Nunchaku Book (Preowned) - Budovideos Inc

Ed Parker's Guide to the Nunchaku Book (Preowned)

Regular price $140.00 CAD
Regular price Sale price $140.00 CAD
What is Self Defense? Book by James Mitose - Budovideos

What is Self Defense? Book by James Mitose

Regular price $29.00 CAD
Regular price $41.00 CAD Sale price $29.00 CAD
The Zen of Kenpo: Meanignful Quotes from the Teachings of Ed Parker Book (Preowned) - Budovideos

The Zen of Kenpo: Meanignful Quotes from the Teachings of Ed Parker Book

Regular price $24.00 CAD
Regular price $27.00 CAD Sale price $24.00 CAD