Japanese Kempo
Thompson's Academy of Martial Arts has been teaching Japanese Kempo in Streetsboro, Ohio since 1993. Japanese Kempo as taught at Thompson's is a blend of traditional Japanese karate, judo and jujitsu.
Our karate is based on the traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate. We use the word kempo to underline the self-defense aspects of the style we teach. Kempo means fist (kem or ken) way or law (po). Kempo traveled to Okinawa, Japan in the 14th and 15th centuries A.D. from Southern China. As with most of the traditional Okinawan styles, kempo is based on the Chinese Southern White Crane system of Kung Fu and some of the techniques we use still clearly reflect this lineage.
Our classes are structured to fit the appropriate age groups as follows:
Little Ninjas - Ages 3 to 6 years: Emphasizes basic movements and techniques to prepare the child for entry into the junior beginner program. The Little Ninja class also places emphasis on the discipline, respect and the self-confidence levels of the children involved.
Juniors Classes - Ages 7 to 11 years: Teaches the basic Japanese Kempo curriculum always with an emphasis on discipline, respect and sef-confidence. There are certain advanced basic techniques and weapons that will not be taught to this age group. At this age a probationary black belt can be earned. This probationary status remains in place until it is determined that the student has the maturity level and proper attitude and self-control to learn the remaining advanced basic techniques a full black belt in the system requires.
Youth/Teen - Ages 12 to 15 years: Same as above except that a full black belt in the system can be earned at this age group. Whether a full black belt is awarded at this age level is at the discretion of the head instructor.
Adult - Ages 16 and up: The full course of empty hand techniques and weapons will be taught at the adult level. Black belts at this level are awarded as a complete rank with all basic techniques covered.
* Our age groups reflect the commitment by our staff to provide an optimum safe learning environment for all of our students.
Japanese Kempo Instructors:
Sensei Bryan States
Co-Owner, Head Instructor and 4th Degree Black Belt
Sensei States began his training in Japanese Kempo in 1983. He has since expanded his training to include Aikido, Boxing, Judo and Jujitsu. He is also a Reiki Master 3rd Degree in the Usui tradition. Sensei States specializes in practical self-defense for women and children. Sensei States prides himself on adapting to each individual student in order to provide the martial arts experience.
Sensei Bill Pinter
Co-Owner, Instructor and 3rd Degree Black Belt
Sensei Pinter began his training in Japanese Kempo in 1991. Sensei Pinter focuses on developing minds as well as individual techniques.
Sensei Kenny Puchowicz
Instructor and 3rd Degree Black Belt
Sensei Puchowicz has been training in Japanese Kempo for 17 years. Sensei Puchowicz is currently teaching Japanese Kempo classes as well as special training on Wednesday evenings.
Sensei Craig Bender
Instructor and 2nd Degree Black Belt
Sensei Bender has trained with Thompson's Academy of Martial Arts since he was 4 years old. He received his Black Belt when he was 14 years old and started teaching 2 years later.