SHORINJI KEMPO Peninsula Branch

SHORINJI KEMPO
Peninsula Branch (USA)

An Official WSKO Branch

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Information about Joining the Practice at the Peninsula Branch

Joining

New students are welcome on an on-going basis. Beginners are welcome, and previous martial arts experience is not necessary. Those with a background in other styles are expected to practice only SHORINJI KEMPO techniques while engaged in practice at the Peninsula Branch.

Monday class is currently limited to ages 13 and above.

Wednesday and Saturday classes are open to all ages. However, Please note the following:

For those under the age of 10, we ask that either an older sibling (above age 10) or a parent/guardian be in class, either to watch or join the class.
The child needs to be mature enough to follow instructions. This generally is about age 5 or 6, but will depend on the maturity of the child. This is one of the reasons we encourage visiting and trying a class first.
The full 2-hour class is quite long and tiring for young children. We may ask you to agree to a customized shortened (ex: 1 hour) class for the young children.

All members receive personalized instruction in a friendly and non-competitive environment.

New students should be in sufficient physical health to participate in moderate to vigorous physical activities. If you have any health issues or concerns, please consult your physician, as well as identify them to the Branch Master.

Although attendance to all classes is not required, students are encouraged to attend as much as possible and on a regular basis. Given Shorinji Kempo's complexity, commitment to regular practice is the only way to retain information and develop skills.

In addition, students must learn a small vocabulary of Japanese terms through the regular and routine class instructions. Students that train regularly find this manageable even if they do not have any Japanese language background.

Cost and Expectations for Practicing at the Peninsula Branch:

Monthly Fee is $40 for age 18 & up, and $25 for 17 & under.
Registration Fee: $25. This is an one time fee for new student's registration with the World Shorinji Kempo Organization Headquarter.
Students are expected to practice in traditional white "Dogi" uniform. For the first few practices for new students, t-shirt & sweat pants (or something easy to exercise in) will be acceptable. New official Dogi is available now. Please consult with the Branch Master about details of the requirement.
We do ask everyone to sign a "Hold Harmless Agreement" (some times referred to as an insurance waiver) which is required for insurance purpose. Forms are available from the Branch Master.

Once the student's registration with WSKO is complete, an ID card will be issued from the WSKO headquarter in Japan. This will give the student the previledge to practice with any WSKO practice location around the world. Registration with the WSKO headquarter is a requirement.

FAQ:

Why is the tuition so much lower than other martial art schools? The World Shorinji Kempo Organization (WSKO) does not allow its branches to be operated for profit. We set the tuition to cover costs only (rent, insurance, etc.).
What if I can't attend three times a week? Most students attend once or twice a week. We recommend students to try to attend twice a week to make progress at a good rate. However you should be able to continue to improve as long as you attend regularly even at a reduced frequency. We believe the key is to continue practicing at what is comfortable and do-able for you.
Do I need to buy the white uniform? Students are expected to practice wearing the approved white "DOGI" uniform. For the first practices for new students, loose-fitting exercise gear is acceptable. The official Dogi is available through the branch, or WSKO-authorized retailers.
Is registration with WSKO required? yes, all branches are required to have all of their students registered with WSKO.
Can I practice at other Shorinji Kempo locations? yes, your WSKO membership and rank are valid at any WSKO branch around the world (6 in the SF Bay Area, about 30 in the US, and over 3000 worldwide).
I used to practice at another branch, but stopped. Can I continue from where I left off? Yes, your prior rank should be on record at WSKO. You can be transferred from your former branch roster to Peninsula.
I have some rank with another style. Can you recognize that? No. Shorinji Kempo has its own system and rank. NO matter what rank you may have with another style, everyone must start from a white belt.
Is prior sports or martial art experience necessary or useful? No prior experience is necessary. Having good body coordination is a plus but not a requirement. With continued practice, everyone can make reasonable progress.
Can I try out a class first? yes. We recommend potential students to come and observe and/or try out a class to ensure Shorinji Kempo is a good fit. To try a class, please contact us via e-mail. You will need to bring loose-fitting exercise clothes and sign an insurance waiver.

Contact e-mail: yoshi_kara@hotmail.com

Created and Maintained by: Shorinji Kempo Peninsula