If you are coming from another art, here is what will surprise you about the Shorinji Kempo curriculum:
The technical curriculum splits into three primary categories: Goho (hard techniques), Juho (soft techniques), and Seihon (corrective therapeutic techniques). Below is a detailed breakdown of the complete Shorinji Kempo curriculum, ranking system, and core philosophies. The Philosophical Foundation
Introduces basic combinations of punches and kicks. Students learn first-level releases from basic wrist grabs.
Shorinji Kempo employs a belt‑ranking system similar to many other martial arts, but with important distinctions: shorinji kempo curriculum
Unlike the kata of Karate, Shorinji Kempo’s hokei are always performed with a partner. There are approximately 84 official hokei, divided into three families:
Deflections using the forearms, palms, and open hands to redirect incoming attacks.
At first glance, Shorinji Kempo looks like a hybrid art—punches like boxing, kicks like Tae Kwon Do, joint locks like Aikido, and throws like Judo. But to understand the art, one must abandon the Western idea of a "curriculum" as a simple list of fight moves. The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is a , blending physical technique ( waza ) with spiritual and philosophical education ( kyōgaku ). If you are coming from another art, here
A dedicated discussion led by the branch master (Dojo Cho) covering the philosophical texts, ethics, and practical applications of Zen philosophy in daily life. Belt Progression and Rank Curriculum
As kenshi advance, they must demonstrate understanding of the philosophical principles of Shorinji Kempo through written assessments, particularly at the Kyu level.
Seihon is an acupressure and alignment system. Practitioners use it to revive exhausted training partners, relieve pain, adjust posture, and promote overall health after rigorous practice. The Kyu/Dan Belt Rank Curriculum Students learn first-level releases from basic wrist grabs
The curriculum is built on three pillars:
For black belt exams, deeper philosophical essays and understanding of the Kyoten (scriptures) are required. 4. Advanced Curriculum (Dan Grades)
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Techniques are classified into "Hard" and "Soft" methods, designed to work together effectively. Shorinji Kempo Curriculum Overview | PDF - Scribd
Then he remembered the first lesson: Gōjō dōkan . Hard and soft unified. He stopped trying to “win” against each attack. He stopped seeing the students as enemies. He saw them as mirrors. When a punch came, he didn’t block it—he joined it. His body moved without thought. The hard block became a soft redirect. The soft redirect became a hard lock. For the last ten minutes, he was not Akira the fighter. He was just a clear space through which force flowed and dissolved.