Kenpo is a fun way to be active and fit. It builds confidence and self respect. But it is more than that. It is an art; a way to practice self expression with every movement rooted in meaning.
Emeth Gymnastics is gearing up for their fall classes and is adding this new program to their list of offerings starting in September. The Kenpo classes will focus on teaching the basics of self defense through kicks, blocks, and stances. Like all Emeth programs, it will focus on building character. Self respect, discipline, perseverance, and mental discipline are all things you will learn through Kenpo.
Kenpo originated in China, from Shaolin temple boxing. It came to Hawaii as Chinese Kenpo. Mr. Ed Parker learned Chinese Kenpo from William K .S. Chow. Mr. Parker then used his master degrees in physics and geometry and applied them to Chinese Kenpo to create American Kenpo. Mr. Parker is where Bruce Lee got some of his ideas for Jeet-Koon-Do and vice versa. Mr. Parker and Bruce Lee were good friends and Parker influenced Bruce Lee’s start in television.
Tony Coladangelo will be instructing Kenpo classes. He has been involved in martial arts for 19 years beginning with private training in Kung Fu in 1993. After joining a Kenpo school in 1995, he began competing a couple of years later, and in 1999 was first place in Ohio in Empty Hands Kata ranking third in the country. In 2000, Tony was first place in the state again with a national ranking of fifth. He also placed first that year in the self defense competition. In 2001, Tony was 2nd in the state of Ohio, and in 2002 he received an invitation to World Championships in Dublin, Ireland.
Tony has been teaching Kenpo with Joe Doyle of Doyle American Karate Academy for 10 years. He is currently working towards his 3rd degree Black Belt.
“I love Kenpo because it changed my life. It gave me a way to express myself, practice discipline with purpose, and gave me structure. I’m passionate about it and enjoy teaching others about this art,” says Tony about his years of Kenpo.
Classes will be held twice a week and include times for kids (6-15) and adults (16 +). For more information click HERE.
Emeth Gymnastics is located at 14999 White Rd Middlefield, OH 44062. For all class offerings, visit Emethgym.com
