• History of Martial Arts

• American Kenpo Karate

• Self-Defense Classes

• Russian Martial Arts Training




• Sparring & Mixed Martial Arts Classes

• Joint Locks & Throws

The History of Martial Arts

The martial arts have been practiced for thousands of years across all cultures. The word "martial" is derived from the Roman god of war, Mars — thus the term "martial arts" translates into "the arts of war". Throughout the centuries, martial artists have identified, recorded, trained and modified specific systems of offensive and defensive combat in order to help protect oneself and others from physical harm. Some martial arts are linked to spiritual or philosophical beliefs (such as Hinduism, Daoism, Confucianism or Shinto), and many of the martial arts are now practiced publicly as competitive sports or forms of dance.

There are many different styles of martial arts, but all share the systemization of fighting techniques. Teaching and training methods vary greatly and can include sparring, forms (kata) or techniques (performed alone or with a partner). The different styles can be grouped into three basic categories according to their focus on either striking, grappling or weaponry:

In recent years, the advent of mixed martial arts tournaments such as the UFC have increased enrollments in martial arts classes in many disciplines and spread awareness of the sport across the globe.

PowerKenpo focuses on the American Kenpo Karate style of training, but also offers classes in other disciplines such as Russian Systema, joint locks and throws (Aikido), sparring and mixed martial arts and basic self-defense. Led by Sifu (teacher) Jim Dryburgh, a fourth degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate, PowerKenpo offers classes for adults, children and families nearly every day of the week.