Kenpo Karate

These Japanese words loosely translate as the 'Art of the Hands' and is essentially a very practical form of self-defence.

Most Martial Arts can trace their origins back centuries to Japan, India or China but this particular style is heavily based on the 1950's teachings of Ed Parker who created American Kenpo. Upon expanding to Ireland in 1962 the International Kenpo Karate Association formed.

Irish Kenpo Karate is based at Navan RFC under the instruction of Keith Moore so we called in to find out more.

How did you discover an interest?

Like most teenagers there comes a time when you or a friend aren't able to get away from a bad situation and being able to defend yourself is hugely important.

I've been involved for over 20 years, having been instructed by Vivion Spain and I'm now a 3rd Degree Black Belt and in training for the 4th Degree which will take at least another year to achieve.

For 10 years I've hosted a club in and around the Johnstown area. Having originally set up in Kentstown we moved to the former Energie Gym, then to Academy Street and now we're here at Navan Rugby Club. We'd obviously like to be back closer to home in the heart of Johnstown if a venue became available.

Meeting ever Tuesday and Friday we currently have 16 students in ages ranging from 4 to 14. We operate a colour grading system to mark levels of achievement.

Our club keeps to the core traditional teachings of Kenpo Karate which teaches skills, confidence and fitness.

Collaboration

We're fortunate to be part of a larger association of 4 clubs which include Drimnagh, Blessington and Rathfarnham. It's with these clubs we participate in competitions.

Would you know how to defend yourself? The speed at which the students perform these maneuvers makes it look easy. We've slowed down the animations to gain an insight into how it's performed.

Many people show an interest in martial arts. Not only is it a great activity that keeps participants physically active, but it instills a sense of achievement and ethics. Our Top 10 benefits of Martial Arts

But even if you have no previous experience in martial arts, it is still a great activity to pick up even as an adult.

1. Total body workout:

Martial arts can be a high-aerobic workout that uses every muscle group in the body. Your stamina, muscle tone, flexibility, balance and strength will all improve through martial arts.

2. Healthy lifestyle:

Due to the total-body nature of a martial arts workout, tons of calories are burned during every class. However, you’ll also find that your natural eating signals become better regulated, so food cravings will disappear and you’ll eat less as a result.

3. Self confidence:

Due to the goal setting, positive encouragement and respect for values that are part of all martial arts programs, the greatest benefit usually reported by martial arts students is greater self-confidence. You become more comfortable in all situations – whether in possible danger or simply doing a task that takes you beyond your comfort zone.

4. Improved cardiovascular health:

Research has found that the only real way to improve the status of the cardiovascular system is by participating in activities that work the heart harder, such as martial arts.

5. Weight loss:

A one hour session of moderate intensity martial arts can burn up to 500 calories.

6. Improved reflexes:

Research has found that by participating in martial arts, you not only improve your reflexes while performing the activity, but actually experience faster reaction times during all activities of your life.

7. Focus and stillness:

As Bruce Lee pointed out, behind the punches, kicks and knees, a true martial artist learns to sit with himself and see where his weaknesses are. As a martial artist, your will learn what it is to be still, challenged and focused.

8. Teaches great morals and values:

Martial arts wisdom has it that after consistent practice, one becomes less impulsive and aggressive towards others. This reminds students of the right attitude, frame of mind and virtues to strive for inside and outside the studio.

9. Muscle tone:

By participating in martial arts, you can greatly improve the amount of muscle mass you have in your body. The higher your muscle mass, the higher your metabolic demands will be, and subsequently the more calories you will burn each day, thereby helping prevent obesity and promote weight loss. High levels of muscle mass also lead to increased agility, thereby preventing falls as you age.

10. Better mood:

Researchers have found that participating in a regular exercise routine is one of the best ways to improve your mood. Performing martial arts is not only a good way to relieve stress and frustration, but may actually help to make you happier. The endorphins released by physical activity appear to be active in your body for as many as four hours after exercise.