Shorinji Kempo Curriculum Official
As the student approaches 2nd Kyu (Blue Belt), the curriculum introduces two specific technical families often hidden in other arts.
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is not designed to produce a ring champion. It is designed to produce a "gentle person" who is also a "fierce defender." The syllabus is a spiral—you return to the same technique at 6th Kyū (white belt) and again at 3rd Dan (black belt), but you see it differently each time.
The beauty of the curriculum lies in its completeness. You learn to punch (Gō), to throw (Jū), to heal (Sei), and to reflect (Zen). If you are looking for a martial art where the brain is as important as the fist, and where the belt color merely reflects your willingness to help others, the path of Shorinji Kempo awaits.
Are you ready to begin the Hokei?
If you are coming from another art, here is what will surprise you about the Shorinji Kempo curriculum:
Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese martial art (Gendai Budo) founded in 1947 by Doshin So. Unlike many combat sports or battlefield arts, Shorinji Kempo was designed explicitly as a "Gyo" (discipline) for educational and character-building purposes. The curriculum is structured not only around physical technique but also around a philosophical system derived from Kongo Zen. This report outlines the structure of the Shorinji Kempo curriculum, its technical classification, and its progression system.
You cannot discuss the Shorinji Kempo curriculum without acknowledging the 15 minutes of Za Zen (sitting meditation) that begins every class. The syllabus requires:
Black belt examinations often include a written test or oral quiz on Kongo Zen philosophy.
The core pedagogical method of Shorinji Kempo is Embu. Unlike the solo kata of Karate or the competitive sparring (Randori) of Judo, Embu is a pre-arranged paired demonstration.
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is not a recipe for violence; it is a recipe for resilience. It is unique in the martial arts world because it refuses to specialize. You cannot just be a "striker" or a "grappler" in Shorinji Kempo; the curriculum forces you to master the punch, the kick, the lock, the throw, and the meditation. shorinji kempo curriculum
For the Western student, the challenge is often the pacing. A blue belt in BJJ might take 18 months; a blue belt in Shorinji Kempo takes 2–3 years. However, graduates of this curriculum report not just physical ability, but a profound sense of Nintai (perseverance).
If you are looking for a martial art where the belt represents not just physical technique, but ethical conduct and healing knowledge, the Shorinji Kempo curriculum offers a path unlike any other. "Hard and soft, united." That is the formula. That is the journey.
Are you ready to start your journey? Find a local branch (Shibu) recognized by the World Shorinji Kempo Organization to ensure you are learning the authentic curriculum.
Shorinji Kempo (少林寺拳法), often translated as "Shaolin Temple Boxing," is a Japanese martial art founded by Doshin So in 1947. Unlike many combat sports, the curriculum is rooted in the principle of Ken Zen Ichinyo (Body and Mind as One), emphasizing that true strength requires a balance of physical skill and mental discipline. II. Core Technical Pillars
The physical curriculum is divided into two primary categories of movement, balanced to provide a complete self-defense system:
Gōhō (Hard Methods): Focuses on "hard" techniques including strikes (tsuki), kicks (keri), and blocks (uke).
Jūhō (Soft Methods): Focuses on "soft" techniques used when grabbed, including releases, joint locks, and throws (nage).
Seihō (Healing Methods): A unique element of the curriculum involving acupressure and massage to restore the body's balance after training. III. Fundamental Training Elements (Kihon)
Students begin by mastering Kihon (basics), which form the foundation for all advanced techniques: Kamae (Stances): Proper body positioning and balance. As the student approaches 2nd Kyu (Blue Belt),
Umpohō (Footwork): Precise movement and distance management.
Taisabaki (Body Movement): Evasive maneuvers to avoid attacks.
Ukemi (Breakfalls): Learning how to fall or roll safely to minimize injury. IV. Progression and Grading
Shorinji Kempo uses a tiered grading system. Students (Kenshi) progress through Kyu (belt) grades before reaching Dan (black belt) ranks. Belt Color Focus Area 6th Kyu Basic stances, strikes, and etiquette. 5th–4th Kyu Yellow/Orange Introduction to basic Gōhō and Jūhō pairs. 3rd–1th Kyu Green/Blue/Brown Complex combinations and counter-attacks. 1st Dan+ Mastery of advanced techniques and philosophy. V. Forms of Practice
Tan-en (Single Form): Solo kata used to refine individual form and balance.
Sotai (Pair Form): The primary method of training, where Kenshi practice techniques with a partner to understand timing and distance.
Embu (Choreographed Sparring): A high-speed demonstration of techniques performed in pairs, often used in competitions.
Randori (Free-form Sparring): Controlled application of techniques in a dynamic, unpredictable environment. VI. Philosophical Curriculum (Gakka)
Instruction is not limited to the dojo floor; "Gakka" (lectures) are a mandatory part of the curriculum. Key concepts include: If you are coming from another art, here
Jiki Jiki Ichinyo: Self and others as one; the idea that helping others is a form of self-improvement.
Shushin Kōjo: The goal of developing a healthy mind in a healthy body.
Shorinji Kempo Curriculum Report
Introduction
Shorinji Kempo is a comprehensive martial art that originated in Japan, combining elements of Shaolin Kung Fu, Kempo, and other styles. The curriculum of Shorinji Kempo is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education in martial arts, physical fitness, and personal development. This report outlines the detailed curriculum of Shorinji Kempo, covering its philosophy, techniques, and training structure.
Philosophy and Principles
Shorinji Kempo is based on the following core principles:
Curriculum Structure
The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is divided into several levels, each with specific techniques, forms, and training objectives:
The curriculum uses a "Dan-i" (Rank) system administered by the World Shorinji Kempo Organization (WSKO). Progression requires proficiency in both the physical syllabus and the philosophical lecture content (Kogi).
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