Karate Classes in West Hartford, CT

What happens in a typical Karate class?

Karate is a traditional martial art that focuses on several key areas.  The training involves learning techniques (punches and kicks), self defense moves (against pushes, punches, and common attacks), and forms (patterned movement that helps create muscle memory and promotes strength and mobility).  We study a hybrid system of Karate that incorporates the Ed Parker American Kenpo System.  Parker’s Kenpo, sometimes called Hawaiian Kenpo, is rather circular in practice and involves a lot fast paced striking.  The kicks in the system are mainly from Tae Kwon Do, which is a Korean martial art that focuses on kicking.  The linear motion of Tae Kwon Do (TKD) complements the small circular motion of Kenpo Karate.  As well, the large circular motion that Kung-Fu brings to the table is also incorporated into our martial arts practice. In our Karate classes, students are taught how to utilize economy of motion, rebounding, and simultaneous opposing motions to help make their movement quicker.  

Learning Karate as a form of self defense in West Hartford, CT

Karate has Japanese roots, and the Hawaiian Kenpo we practice formed from these roots.  Geographically, Hawaii could be considered close to Japan, and Hawaii has benefitted from attracting a population of people that includes a significant number of folks who were originally from Japan.  The Karate that these original settlers from Japan studied in Hawaii grew into what we today call American Kenpo Karate.  The system was founded by Ed “Kealoha” Parker.  At Plus One Defense Systems in West Hartford, CT, we focus our Karate classes in a holistic manner and enjoy studying the beautiful and effective martial art of American Kenpo Karate. 

How does Karate compare with other martial arts?

Karate translates to “empty hands” and is typically taught for both self-defense and fitness purposes.  It’s a great way to become healthier and stronger while learning a skill that is practical.  Karate has been around for hundreds of years.  There’s a reason for that!  The techniques are tried and well-tested, and they have been refined over the centuries.  The modern adaptions that have come into play are found in the Parker’s Kenpo, and the style functions well with others.  We do encourage cross-training, and we offer many other martial arts classes and styles that students can take, in addition to Karate.  Cross training in different martial arts at Plus One Defense Systems is free to all members.  We encourage you find the art and style that is right for you.  Often times, this is a combination of taking a Karate class and, for example, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) or Muay Thai Kickboxing class.

Try a FREE Karate Introductory Class in West Hartford today!

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We offer free introductory classes so that you have the opportunity to see what Karate has to offer.  Our Karate instructors are excited about this discipline, and we’re excited to share all the benefits that training in the martial arts has to offer!