The curriculum of Shorinji Kempo is unique among Japanese martial arts for its equal emphasis on technical mastery and philosophical study. Founded by Doshin So (Kaiso) in 1947, it is designed as a "Gyo"—a discipline for developing individuals to benefit society through self-defense, spiritual cultivation, and improved health. 1. The Three Pillars of Training
The curriculum is built on three core systems that must be practiced in balance:
Philosophy (Gakka): Lessons on how to lead a better life, focusing on compassion, justice, and the principle of "half for oneself, half for others".
Techniques (Gyo): Physical training consisting of over 600 techniques.
Healing Arts (Seiho): A system of acupressure and massage used to correct body structure and promote recovery. 2. Technical Categories
Techniques are broadly divided into two major systems, known as Ken Zen Ichi Nyo (The body and mind are one): Shorinji Kempo Curriculum for Kyu Kenshi - 少林寺拳法
Shorinji Kempo is more than a martial art; it is a comprehensive educational system designed to develop the mind, body, and spirit in equal measure. Founded in 1947 by Doshin So, the curriculum is rooted in the philosophy of
, which teaches that individual self-improvement is the first step toward creating a better society. The Two Pillars of Technique
The physical curriculum is divided into two distinct but complementary categories: Gōhō (Hard Methods): shorinji kempo curriculum
This includes strikes, kicks, blocks, and parries. Unlike many striking arts that rely on brute force, Gōhō emphasizes evasive movement and striking vital points ( ) to allow a smaller person to overcome a larger attacker. Jūhō (Soft Methods):
This focuses on releases, joint locks, pins, and throws. These techniques are used to neutralize an opponent who has grabbed or restrained the practitioner, utilizing leverage and anatomical weak points rather than muscle. Essential Principles
What sets the Shorinji Kempo curriculum apart are its core governing principles: Ken Zen Ichinyo:
"Mind and body are one." Training requires both physical exertion and mental discipline; one cannot be perfected without the other. Riki Ai Fudo:
"Strength and love in harmony." This teaches that power without compassion is violence, but compassion without the strength to act is useless. Kumite主体 (Pair Work): Almost all training is done in pairs. This fosters cooperation
and mutual respect, as practitioners learn that they cannot improve without the help of a partner. Philosophical Education Every grading level includes a
(philosophical lecture) component. Students are required to study and write about the history of the art, the ethics of self-defense, and social responsibility. This ensures that as a practitioner becomes more dangerous physically, they become more disciplined and empathetic mentally.
Ultimately, the Shorinji Kempo curriculum is designed to produce reliable leaders The curriculum of Shorinji Kempo is unique among
—people who have the physical skills to protect themselves and the moral courage to help others. breakdown of the specific requirements for the first several belt ranks (Kyū levels)?
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is a structured path that balances physical technique, mental discipline, and philosophical education. Founded in 1947 by Doshin So, the system is designed not just for self-defense, but to develop individuals who can contribute to a peaceful society. Core Technical Pillars
The physical curriculum is divided into three main categories of technique:
Goho (Hard Techniques): Striking-based defenses including punches (tsuki), kicks (keri), and blocks (uke).
Juho (Soft Techniques): Grappling-based defenses such as releases from grabs, pins, and throws.
Seiho (Healing Techniques): A system for adjusting the body and improving health, often involving pressure points or massage to balance the nervous system. Ranking and Progression
Beginner's guide - East London Shorinji Kempo - Practical Martial Art
Goho refers to physical striking techniques. This includes: Tsuki (Thrusts): Punches and strikes with the fist
Focus: Introduction to Hard and Soft.
Author: [Generated for academic purposes]
Date: [Current date]
Subject: Martial Arts Studies / Comparative Physical Education
Kihon comprises fundamental movements without a partner. The core set is the Jun kihon (standard basics):
Kihon is progressive: beginner kihon (9th–7th kyū) focuses on posture and basic striking; intermediate kihon (6th–4th kyū) introduces combinations; advanced kihon (3rd kyū+) adds speed, hip rotation, and targeting of vital points (kyūsho).
A unique curricular component is Bōhō — practical defense against grabs, holds, and surprise attacks (e.g., hair grabs, lapel grabs, bear hugs). This module is taught starting at 5th kyū. It includes:
Bōhō emphasizes “single-beat response” — no prolonged grappling. The curriculum intentionally avoids sport judo-style ground fighting to maintain focus on standing survival.
Unlike the solo Kata of Karate, Shorinji Kempo Hokei are almost all two-person drills.