3 comments about Ed Parker's Infinite Insights Into Kenpo: Mental and Physical Applications.

1. This book is a must-have for Kenpo people to complete the Insights series. Ed Parker's re-arrangement of the Web of Knowledge is seen for the first time in book form. The first three beginner forms are illustrated as well.



2. This book is a must-have for Kenpo people to complete the Insights series. Ed Parker's re-arrangement of the Web of Knowledge is seen for the first time in book form. The first three beginner forms are illustrated as well.



3. This is the fifth and final volume in Ed Parker's technical series on "Infinite Insights into Kenpo". Parker described the first three books as the "How" of American Kenpo, the fourth volume as the "What", and this final book in the series as the "Why".
   
   "Mental and Physical Applications" ties all of the principles from the preceeding four volumes together and shows how the materials may be taught as a single curriculum. Parker focuses on how to learn, and how to teach, explaining that the two processes generally accompany and enhance one another (the teacher Parker points out, is still learning while he teaches). Using the original model explained in the first volume of Forms, Self-Defence and Freestyle, Parker offers a complete treatment concerning principles and theories of American Kenpo.
   
   Parker again stresses the importance of basics, physical and theoretical, and offers a comparison between basic rules for writing and those for efficient smart fighting. In making a comparison most of us can relate to, Parker gets the point across that fighting may be based upon sense and logic.
   
   For the first time, kenpo forms are explained as basics in motion, and the first three forms are presented here as well. Short Form 1, Long Form 1, and Short Form 2. Parker explains the purpose and principles of forms, and stresses the importance of the teacher's ability to convey the meaning and application of the form to the student.
   
   Parker introduces the Priorities of Self-Defense Study, tying together 12 important Priorities he has discussed in the preceeding four volumes of the series: Environment, Range, Position & Foot and Hand Positions, Stances, Maneuvers, Targets, Zone Theories, Natural weapons, Natural Defenses, Breathing, Tailoring, and Physical and Mental Conditioning.
   
   From here we go to studying the nature of an attack, and Parker introduces a learning tool called the "Web of Knowledge". He explains how knowlege is listed on the "Web", and how it insures students are learning the appropriate number of techniques with variant responses and principles. Parker shows 11 webs which illustrate the knowledge from various teaching and technical groupings required for promotion to yellow, orange, purple, blue, green, brown 3, 2 & 1, and black 1, 2, & 3.
   
   Parker also offers an analytical study of motion complete with illustrations, examples, and a helpful organizational chart. An important chapter on determining choice of action is includes, and an in-depth treatment of self defense techniques. Parker reminds us:
   
   "Because kenpo is an eclectic fightnig science it accepts, adopts and applies other scientific disciplines to maximize its effectiveness. Knowledge of anatomy, physiology and geometry are logically entwined to insure practicality" (101)
   
   Again the techniques shown in this chapter are for the purpose of illustrating American Kenpo principles, not for actually teaching the technique. It is clear Parker is speaking to an audience who already knows or is learning these sequences or similar ones from other styles. Parker shows 10 techniques to convey his points, including "Lone Kimono", "Crossed Twigs", "Five Swords", "Entwined Maces", "Detour from Doom", "Dance of Darkness", "Grip of Death", "Obstructing the Storm", "Raining Lance", and "Capturing the Rod". Each technique is not only fully illustrated, but includes detailed noted on technique as well as theory and all of the principles which the properly executed technique use. In the next section, Parker offers the same detailed treatment of Freestyle (sparring, competition). Chapters include:
   
   *Acknowledgements/Dedication/Black Belt Pledge/Abuot Pledge/Preface
   1. Introduction
   2. Importance of Basics
   3. Basics in Motion (Short Form 1, Long Form 1, Short Form 2: what they contain and teach)
   4. Priorities of Self Defense (Environment, Range, Position & Foot & Hand Position, Stances, Maneuvers, Targets, Zone Theories, Natural Weapons, Natural Defenses, Breathing, Tayloring, Physical and Mental Conditioning)
   5. Nature of the Attack (Web of Knowledge, How to read the Web of Knowledge, Web of Knowledge for belt requirements)
   6. An Analytical Study of Motion (org. chart)
   7. Determining Your Choice of Action
   8. Self Defense Techniques (Benefits and pointers, reinforcing ingerdients speed/power, selected techniques (10)
   9. Freestyle (Sparrnig) (acceptance, Environment, Range Dimensional stages of action, Position, Positioned blocks, zone theories, reactionary postures and positions, maneuvers, foot/body/feinting, targets, postures & positions in relation to targets, contouring principles, complementary angle, angle of incidence, surface concentration, penetration, natural weapons: strikes, natural defenses: blocks, Mental and Physical Constituents: a review of contributing factors, freestyle techniques, explanation of freestyle techniques, notes on freestyle techniques)
   10. Conclusion
   Success
   *Glossary of Terminology
   
   A well-preseted series which progresses in a logical order. After reading and considering this series, I believe Parker accomplished what he set out to do. He presented his materials, principles and theories in a sensible down-to-earth way. You needn't be a student of American Kenpo to glean useful information from this series, although I wouldn't reccomend any serious student of Parker's American Kenpo (or derivatives) go without. I found this series of books useful in helping me adapt the way I consider attack and defense, even though my own style of preference is Okinawan Karate. Clearly this was the product of much serious thought and hard work. I'm proud that a fellow American martial artist could contribute something truely noteable and new to the world of martial arts.

1 comments about Kenpo Karate 301 - The Intermediate Forms.

1. Mr. Wedlake's book is an excellent review for those of you who already have had instruction in the S3 & L3 forms. The photos help illustrate how the form is to be preformed but if you don't already know the form you really won't get it. The work is very helpful to keep the Parker forms alive and accurate.

2 comments about Ed Parker's Infinite Insights into Kenpo: Mental & Physical Constituents.

1. This book is the 4th of a 5 book series and gives a great insight to art of American Kenpo. In this near 200 pages book you can find the brown belt pledges as well as 55 ilustrated and exciting pages on target areas, near 60 pages on zone theories and some usefull terminology. In this book you can also find the explanation of the universal pattern among other things.

   Definitely worth your money...




2. This is the fourth volume in a five volume series written by American Kenpo founder Ed Parker. Throughout the series Parker sets forth the principles of American Kenpo, going far beyond simple demonstrations of technique. In "Mental and Physical Constituents", Parker teaches "...additional ingredients that are often overlooked or taked for granted, but are necessary to maximize your efforts" (1)
   
   This volume breaks down into three major portions. The first deals with mental conditioning breathing and sensory, the second with vital zones and strikes from a holistic standpoint (not simply a chart), and the last is the Kenpo Zone theory. While these are not the only things discussed within, they make up a major portion of this detailed work.
   
   Parker first examines the importance of mental conditioning, namely the ability to maintain a tranquil state of mind through developing a positive attitude. He explains the connection between attiude, mental discipline, focus and confidence. I found the descriptions and views fascinating, as they were so strongly based upon Parker's personal beliefs and experiences.
   
   Parker discusses mental control he witnessed from Hawai'ian Kahunas growing up as a Polynesian youth on the Big Island. This is probably one of the few occasions where Parker refers to his own religious beliefs and frames certain principles in the light of his Latter Day Saint (Mormon) faith. Parker writes:
   
   "Where else have we heard of miraculous feats performed by man? Why from the Bible. Now it must be remembered that many of these miraculous feats were carried outby men other than Christ who were aided by the power of the Priesthood. [...] As offsprings of God (not creations of) we automatically inherit a conscious and subconscious mind [...]. (page 6)
   
   He also names a number of other books and works associated with mind, and even discusses his beliefs concerning Ki or Chi. Next Parker covers Breathing, then Developing the senses, and then introduces a lenthy and specific chapter on Target Areas.
   
   Parker stresses the importance of understanding the effects strikes have upon the body, knowing where to hit and what methods and angles to use. Positions of Readiness are show, as are reactionary positions from which the reader is instructed to craft practical attacks and follow up responses. Parker reminds us on page 38 that "TARGET AREAS should also be viewed from the positions you may find yourself in during combat."
   
   He also stresses that you should not only be aware of an opponent's vulnerabilities from any given position, but of your own as well! In addition to explaining vital principles, Parker is always ready with common sense:
   
   "When a punch is thrown at your head keep your blocking arm still as if it were a fifty cent fan. Do not attempt to block with it, but keep it from moving. Instead move your head away from the punch" (80)
   
   Kenpo Zone theories are explained here in depth, and are presented as an extention of vital points discussion. Zones are offered as "...imaginary dissections of an opponent's anatomy and the space surrounding him." (81) The four basic zones of kenpo are introduced and explained in detail: Height Zones, Width Zones, Depth Zones, and Obscure (peripheral) Zones. I found principles based on efficient motion and safety to be taught in a straightforward manner here, no fluff, easy to understand. Also covered in this araea arerange of movements and checking and controlling, and the two are melded in a chapter on zone theory of directional movement starting on page 130, which include the Outer Rim and Quadrant theories. Contents Include Chapters on the following:
   
   *Acknowledgements/Dedication/Brown Belt Pledges/About Pledges/Preface
   1. Introduction
   2. Mental Conditioning
   3. Breathing
   4. Developing the Senses
   5. Target Areas (visualizing targers from position of readiness, unconcerned positions, reactionary positions, prone positions, other positions. skeletal bones fron/back. striking near the bones. internal organs fron/other vital areas. muscular systems front/back. vital targets front/back. natural weapons, contouring principle, action versus reaction, zone theories intro, environmental objects and targets, avoiding fatal blows)
   6. Zone Theories (dimensional zone theory, repeated emphasis, checking and controlling, zone theory of directional movement, outer rim theory, quadrant zone theory
   7. Basic Concepts and Principles of Technique
   8. Revealing the Universal Pattern
   9. Conclusion
   *Glossary of Terminology
   
   A good volume that ties the "What" of Americal together nicely. Vital for serious American Kenpo practitioners, and a good thought provoking read for those of you from other styles who may find some use in adopting or adapting some of Parker's principles to your own training. Parker's Fifth and final volume in this series is Mental and Physical Applications", where he has promised to present and explain the "Why" of American Kenpo.

No comments about Kenpo Karate 401 - Form Four.

No comments about Kenpo Karate 501 - Form Five.

4 comments about Kenpo Karate 101 : What the Beginner and the Black Belt Should Know.

1. I am 29 and on 30 Aug 00 started American Kenpo training at Curtis Abernathy's school in San Antonio, Texas. Previously, during 6 1/2 years in the Air Force, I studied in schools teaching Wah Lum kung fu, tae kwon do, modern arnis, and wing tsun, and dabbled in small circle jujitsu, ground fighting, and tai chi. (I tried a little shotokan karate and judo in college earlier.) American Kenpo, as presented by my current instructor and in Mr. Wedlake's book, is the most enjoyable system yet.

   Mr. Wedlake roughly covers the following: - What is kenpo, and who was Ed Parker? - Set a goal, select a school, how to be a student - Class structure, student responsibilities, and how to practice - Kenpo techniques and cultural impact on the arts - Attitude/philosophy - The gi, belt, and testing - Women, children, and seniors - Street fighting, seminars, associations, competitions, and demos - Instructor footnotes and rules of motion

   The book is short (157 pages) and can be read in two or three sittings. I was tempted to blast through it in one, but letting the lessons within sink in requires some time for reflection. The material mirrored much of what I've been learning in class, and helpfully illustrated and reinforced techniques and theories. As kenpo is a very logical system, it is suitable for the analysis presented in books like this. It is not a series of attack - response scenarios, like most martial arts books in my library. Rather, it explains the ideas behind kenpo and its associated practices, filling a gap left by some other authors.

   Having been a student of Ed Parker Sr., Mr. Wedlake brings many personal stories to the book. He answers many "why" questions, such as why newly promoted students are struck in a good-natured manner upon receiving their belts. (I'm sure this will surprise non-martial artists. I first saw this aspect of kenpo in Jeff Speakman's movies.)

   This volume is a must-read if you are a kenpo student. Serious practioners from other styles with any interest in kenpo will find it useful, too. I'm looking forward to your next book, Mr. Wedlake!




2. I strongly believe you must SWEAT SWEAT SWEAT to learn karate, instead of reading on your couch, and think you have mastered Karate. This is just another karate book only good for information.......I would like to see more philosphy type of book.



3. Everything was great the book got here super fast! In the condition stated.



4. This book was a great read, I really wish I'd had it when I started studying Martial Arts. The book gave a good overview of some of the cultural stigmas surrounding MA as well as what to look for in a school. I'd recommend Mr. Wedlake's books to anyone. He has a lot of information to share that will make you life easier and help make your studies more effective.

1 comments about Kenpo Karate 201: The Basics and Exercise Forms.

1. The book cover somem of the basic forms, as you can see in the index. HIghly recomended for starters. Sometimes the masters doesn't take the time to show with patience or maybe the class content it's too much. This book is a good reference to remember what you have been doing in class.

2 comments about Ed Parker's Encyclopedia of Kenpo Version 1.0.

1. Must have reference for serious Kenpo karate students at all levels. I am an intermediate (orange belt) Kenpo student in Cheyenne, Wyoming. I wish I had read Ed's book sooner in my training. A very helpful reference to terms frequently used during training. For example, did you know that the term "branch" used in the technique "Buckling Branch" refers to a leg? It also contains illustrative photos and some history of definitions. I am also an author (Rocky Mountain Adventure Collection).



2. Mr. Parker was a genius of motion and like his Karate, this book is well organized and covers it all.

2 comments about Law of the fist and the empty hand: A book on kenpo karate.

1. this book keyed on most of the points in kenpo karate...if you have the time to wait for the book it is a perfect buy for any martial arts fanatic



2. A superb introduction to Ed Parker's American Kenpo Karate, this manual covers basic techniques in Part I, and in Part II the first (original) 62 maneuvers required for promotion to 2nd brown tip white belt--that is, before the introduction of belts other than white, brown and black. Remember this volume was written in 1960.
   
   This was Parker's first book, and it stands out from what little was available at the time for its straightforward explanations and crisp, clear drawings and photographs. Each sequence is completely explained and illustrated with written instruction and photos--on average each technique (series) is shown in 3-5 photos which include precise arrows illustrating the path of movement.
   
   Even in 1960, you can see the intellectual side of Parker's American Kenpo, as he covers topics such as the "Importance of Speed", the "Importance of Maneuvering", and the "Importance of Integrating Speed, Power, Accuracy and Gauging of Distance" (page73-74). Already Parker was making use of organizational charts for anatomical points, method and effect of attack. (pages 58-65).
   
   For the history buffs among us, Acknowledgements are given by Parker on the copyright page to several of the early men of Kanpo Karate, including Ben Otake, William Ingram, Robert Liddle, Tim Trahan, Charles Pranke, and Rich Montgomery. Parker and several early students (Including two of the Tracy brothers of Tracy's Kenpo fame among them) take turns demonstrating techniques, with Parker alternating between Tori (demonstrator) and Uke (assistant). Of special value to those with an interest in Karate and Kenpo history in the United States.

5 comments about Ed Parker's Infinite Insights into Kenpo : Mental Stimulation (Vol. 1).

1. I am training with Master Rose in the Art of American Kenpo Karate and reading this book enforces everything he has taught me. It is an excellent book for anyone interested in taking up or participating in the Art of American Kenpo Karate. I highly recommend it.



2. Well, I am certainly no expert however I feel the sheer fact Mr Parker was able to write the extaordinary accompanying texts to his art deserves 5 stars. Having experienced a taste of Mr Parker's genius in my dojo through the skilled teachings of my instructor, I am doubly happy that there is a textual reference to backup and enforce the knowledge imparted to me. Any true science is benefited by a reference, although there can be no substitute for a skilled instructor. Hopefully this and the other books will act as a compass to keep me pointed in the right direction in years to come.



3. A very good book to supplement formal training. I use it as a study guide on the basic techniques which are essential to appreciating the art. It has detailed diagrams of stances and foot positions, as well as explanations of why and when you choose particular stances. He did a great job with this. I highly recommend it. It easy to read, imaginative and the illustrative drawings are better than the poor quality photo imaging available at the time of its publishing.



4. The first in a five volume series, this book contains Ed Parker's Autobiography as well as a detailed history of Kenpo as Parker understood it. Parker explains how he learned kenpo in Hawaii from William Chow, began teaching it in the United States, started the Kenpo Karate Association of America (KKAA), which became the International Kenpo Karate Association (IKKA). Explained are all of the symbols of American Kenpo, including the original International Kenpo Karate Association patch, Parker's original Universal Symbol.
   
   This volume goes beyond most basic introductory books in that it includes a significant amont of detail. For instance, in chapter 3 when Parker explains the three divisions of the art of Kenpo, including Basics, Self Defense, and Freestyle, he breaks each one of these three divisions into all of its possible components. Basics includes techniques, combinations, and kata, or forms, physical and mental conditioning, etc. Parker explains each specific term, why it is important and how it applies. Additionally there is a glossary in the back of the book which covers all of the kenpo specific terms used in the book. If you need to refresh on the difference between Paragraphs of Motion versus Phonetics of Motion, you need only flip to the back of the book.
   
   My complaints about this book are few--namely, lack of an index, and the glaring omission of the Family Tree Chart, which was mentioned specifically, but never included in the book. Other than that, I highly recommend this book to practitioners of American Kenpo specifically, as well as practitioners of any of the "traditional" striking arts. Ed Parker was a thinking matrial artist who put his ideas concerning martial arts practice down in a specific way so that others could understand and build on his work. Whether one practices his style of kenpo or not, the principles are worth considering and this book is worth reading.
   
   Chapters in Volume One: Mental Stimulation include:
   1. Introduction
   2. History of American Kenpo
   3. Three Divisions of the art (Basics, Self-Defense, Freestyle)
   4. Relationship of Martial arts Systems
   5. The Art as Related to Daily Living
   6. Ingredients, Stages, and Plateaus of Learning
   7. Philosophical Attainment
   8. My Philosophy of the Martial Arts
   9. Formalities and Rituals (verbal respect, Physical gestures of respect--Parker himself demonstrates the Kenpo Salute)
   10. Belt Ranking System
   11. Preparatory Considerations (Acceptance, Environmental Awareness, Range, Position, Maneuvers, Targets, Natural Weapons, Natural Defenses
   12. Stories of Related Value (Time and Place, Modern Day Ethics)
   13 The Ten Commandments of Prevention
   14 Conclusion
   Glossary of Terminology



5. This is a great book filled with history and insights, it lays the foundations for the rest of the series. Nothing really deep, but still lots of interesting information.