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Sublevel Four Kenpo This article is being considered for deletion in accordance with Wikipedia's deletion policy.
Please see this article's entry on the Votes for Deletion page for voting and discussion on the matter. Please do not remove or deface this notice or blank, merge, or move this article while the discussion is in progress. However, you are welcome to edit this article and improve it. For more information, read the Guide to Votes for Deletion. SubLevel Four Kenpo Up until the passing of Ed Parker I had not given much thought to the diversity of Ed Parkers teachings over the years, and its affect on what he, in general called American Kenpo. I considered myself a good friend first and a student second, and I assumed his contemporary lessons for me were no different than others he considered close. I watched him teach and influence a variety of motion based Kenpo-Karate concepts over the years. He continued to share with former students who had gone on their own, as well as his current black belts who taught commercially. Although my own lessons seemed to go in a different direction, I really thought there were others he was teaching similarly to myself and never gave it much thought. In all fairness, who really knows? It is not my place to decide what anyone does or does not know. After his passing I was caught off guard at the amount of curiosity, students at all levels of His Kenpo had about where my information came from. I took for granted and spoke of things that many had never heard of from an American Kenpo perspective. I was further surprised how strongly some argued that such information didnt exist in Ed Parkers system, and how their personal understanding of his creation was already complete. Still others apparently assumed his Infinite Insight series of books were the collective sum of his knowledge. How arrogant, I thought to myself for someone to assume they now know all the knowledge Ed Parker knew, or even that the sum of his knowledge was in a few books on concepts. Others wanted to know where this information was written. Still others asked the question, Well why didnt Ed Parker teach me or so-and-so instructor that? This is a question they should probably reserve for that instructor(s) or themselves. Clearly there are advanced aspects to Mr. Parkers commercial motion based vehicle he privately sometimes called Motion-Kenpo. However I personally use the word advanced to mean knowledge not contained therein, not to demean or as a put down of the concept. I personally coined the terms Advanced American Kenpo Concepts, and SubLevel Four Kenpo based on phrases Ed Parker always used when he wanted to work on very specific areas in my interaction with him. He borrowed the former and used it himself on the jacket sleeve of the videos his son produced. Today I only use the phrase Motion-Kenpo to differentiate what I teach from different interpretations, not to demean the significant works and study of others. Nerve Activations This advanced level of American Kenpo, shortened sometimes to SL-4 tends to be misunderstood because it covers multiple areas of applications. When SubLevel Four is used to strike, nerves are activated through basic Destructive Sequencing utilizing Chinese Acupuncture Meridians, pressure points, and nerves embedded in cavities of the human body. This causes the subject to involuntarily react in a predictable manner creating a Negative Body Posture. This places him at a significant anatomical disadvantage. In simple terms, nerve cavities are made accessible and body positioning is physically restricted and vulnerable, thus the term Negative Body Posture. This unique methodology effectively manipulates the body for each additional action until it is essentially incapacitated by a bodily dysfunction called Physical/Mental Disassociation or physically incapacitation. At the very least your adversary is severely momentarily physically restricted. Striking Manipulations During this striking process, minor or major manipulations may be employed to assist in placing the attacker into a negative posture to facilitate (if desired), nerve cavities being open and accessible. Once that occurs, particular natural weapons are then executed in a specific method, manner, angle, and known sequence in conjunction with the created Negative Posture. This process is initiated by your attackers own aggressive actions. When you are capable of understanding as well as reading Martial Posture, you know what incapacitating mechanisms are most easily accessed based on your attackers own actions. The default techniques consider that in prescribed applications and are taught to function under these primary principles. Teaching Although it would seem to be a complicated process, with proper basic training it really is not. Freshman M.S.U. Students routinely do it quite effectively. The method is all in the design of the Default Techniques and the level of knowledge designed into their execution, coupled with an instructor knowledgeable enough to teach it. If the technique is learned properly, it functions essentially on its own. Like with an automobile, when you turn the ignition key, a series of very complex things take place in successive order. Nevertheless, you dont really have to know how or why these things happen to start the engine, you just have to know how to turn the key. Multiple Levels There are four levels of physical curriculum in SubLevel Four Kenpo. At the first level students learn the Default Technique for each assault or attack scenario. The design of the technique allows a student to express their basic skills and perfect applications indefinitely as more knowledge is conveyed. Each technique has a particular method and manner of execution that is, unlike motion-based Kenpo, not flexible in its learning process. This is because the teaching imparts basic body structure, and the cultivation of newly formed synaptic pathways, that are being hard wired under Adrenal Stress Training. This is a process that most traditional arts attempt to do in some manner or another. Motion-based Kenpos approach is a large exception to proper physical training, and teaching, not the rule. There is a reason why everyone moves the same in more traditional arts like Wing Chun, or in Taiji Quon forms, as well as in American Kenpos parent, Chaun-fa. Each technique is also an expression of basic skills that can be performed without a partner for training alone much like old world Chinese Methods. We call this S.E.T. for Singular Execution Training. When properly executed they are essentially a functional mini-form or set. In SET Training, internal energy can then be developed by forcing correct body mechanics, breathing, and Body Aligning Resistance similar to Taiji. Each Default Technique has many levels of applications and lessons built into their design that go far beyond what is obviously seen. To the unknowledgeable, they look essentially the same as conventional motion-based Kenpo training. Level One The First Level, which contains ten (10) separate progressive courses that insures the techniques are anatomically and mechanically functional. Grabs must be defended properly and not as attempted grabs. There are no throw away techniques. This insures students can use the curriculum functionally if not yet precisely, and can defend themselves relatively quickly. The higher a student moves in course level the more skilled they become, and the better they execute previous course curriculum that is constantly revisited to insure foundational skills. This was a major source of discourse among some Parker followers. Once they felt they had learned something, they wanted to move on. Ed Parker constantly re-examined everything. Current M.S.U. Students in SubLevel Four Kenpo are responsible for their present course of study as well as all courses previously studied, and subsequent improvements until they graduate to the black belt level. From the graduate level up, students may choose to review or not. Although everyone does the same thing, it is clear more advanced students do it better with more precision, power, control, and effectiveness. Level Two The Second Level explores the true application of forms and sets and integrates that functionality into the current level of instruction. When viewed from a non-motion perspective, there is a great deal of information there. Additionally, each assault scenario is re-visited with the additional responsibility of an escalation of the attack beyond the default scenario. Here we emphasize counter grappling through mechanisms learned but not emphasized at level one that create a Grapple Control Mechanism or G.C.M. In addition, other considerations are added moving the Default Technique attack upward in aggression. As an example, in a technique like Sword and Hammer, where the shoulder is grabbed at the first level, at the next level students are obliged to defend against an additional punch with the shoulder grab. This is taught without venturing outside of already created synaptic pathways or muscle memory of the Default Technique previously learned. There are no singular assault scenarios at this stage. A punch is never just one punch. A grab is always a precursor to further assaults in the Level Two Default Technique Sequence Scenario. Finally, all techniques are addressed from a perspective of Startle Reflex Activation in execution. That is, techniques must be successfully performed under circumstances that suggests you are caught completely by surprise and must react initially without the Benefit of footwork. Level Three Level Three is a very significant level because the accumulated skill developed here should be such that completing a Default Technique Sequence in its entirety should not be the students goal. Instead, the first one, two, or three moves of the Default Technique should be executed at such a high degree of skill, that it renders the rest of the technique sequence unnecessary. Although still available if needed, this allows a built in safety net at all levels of performance from beginner to advanced with a built in assumption of success. Level Four Level Four is arguably the most physically challenging and certainly the most difficult. This component is the most recognizable as different from conventional Kenpo. Although as you move through the other three levels you are being slowly introduced to Level Four Concepts, it is not until you get to this level that you are responsible to execute full Control Manipulation off the same external stimulus of previous curriculum. Additionally, a student is required ultimately to do this extemporaneously in conjunction with striking methodology as necessary. Control Manipulation SubLevel Four Control Kenpo Manipulations have often been confused with jiu-jitsu or even Aikido, but its parameters are much different and are not pain reliant like other manipulation arts. This makes the manipulations different from conventional Jiu-jitsu, or Aikido, execution. Its roots are in a component of all Chinese Arts called Chin-na and are the historical source for most manipulations arts. Mr. Parker however dictated, and I continue with very specific American Kenpo Parameters different form even Chin-na. This component is integrated with the nerve striking and misalignment sciences. SubLevel Four Kenpo Control Manipulations can be every bit as aggressive as the stand-alone striking component. All SL-4 components are engineered to produce skills that work together or independently of each other as you desire, or as the situation dictates. By definition Control Manipulation is not a part of motion-based Kenpo, and is not included in the 4 ranges of combat as defined by Ed Parker in his published Encyclopedia of Kenpo. Psychology of Confrontation Theory Additionally a very important component called Psychology of Confrontation Theory is taught in some form at all levels. It is very important to get into the mind of the attacker and understand his actions relative to the assault. Once you understand what an attacker is trying to accomplish, you are better equipped to see that they are not successful. This is also where the stress component is increased in intensity. The method is similar to military training or civilian law enforcement role-playing scenarios. This is where your training becomes really hard wired into muscle memory therefore making synaptic pathways virtually immune to Adrenal Dump Syndrome. The Learning Process Although the learning process never stops, self-exploration for the purposes of discovering information isnt a major part of that process. A student must have a significant foundation of knowledge not conceptually available except by being taught. Information is examined under the tutelage of competent and knowledgeable instructors only. The lowest level of commitment acceptable is level one. Students with commitment levels lower than level one and who have not accepted the commitment necessary for study are therefore not accepted into the student body. We are absolutely results driven and are not obliged to accept anyone, regardless of age, gender, or previous skill and knowledge. Although there is a social camaraderie component to our classes, our students are very serious and our approach is definitely not recreational. This is part of our responsibility to the student to not instill false confidence through rank that could get them seriously injured. Integrity comes from excellence, and excellence comes from integrity. Unlike our public school systems, there are no social promotions, and no monetary incentives to keep unproductive and failing students. Structural Integrity and Qi Proper (as opposed to aesthetically) Anatomical Alignment is also stressed continually, and is paramount at all levels to create structural integrity and internal energy flow. The creation of structural integrity is a science unto itself. Should the body not be placed in the proper position, effectiveness is diminished significantly offensive and defensively. Without the knowledge of Anatomical Body Positioning, none of these components will work. What the Chinese call Qi or internal energy cannot be generated without proper body mechanics. Conversely, proper body mechanics cannot exist without Qi being generated. Therefore, these two elements, once initiated by proper physical movement and body mechanics, feed off each other. You cannot achieve one without the other. Like a spiraling staircase, if you continue to feed the mechanics, the internal grows which in turn feeds back into the mechanics. It is one of many processes in SubLevel Four Kenpo and is very real, and quite effective. A Different Process So you see, SubLevel Four Kenpo is a process. It is a unique method and manner of study and training of specific Kenpo curriculum. There are no what ifs or short cuts. It is the execution of a curriculum specifically designed to get a student to the highest level of skill and knowledge his/her personal commitment will allow. The process is indefinite and instruction never stops. Everyone starts at the beginning of Level 1, regardless of previous study outside of SubLevel Four Kenpo. Some feel they should begin at a higher level, because they have studied other arts or even motion-based-Kenpo. For most, the differences are diametrically opposed to SL-4, and this is not possible. Although previous experiences are an asset, previous lessons for the most part, probably are not. When you move to the hard non-flexible curriculum of SL-4, you may no longer think of motion as the dominant theme. SubLevel Four diminishes Motion-based-Kenpos tailoring significantly, and negates the Alphabetical and Numerical Rearrangement Concepts almost completely, along with a great deal of other Motion-based-Kenpo ideas and rules. Motion is still there, and so is tailoring but they become restricted to much smaller parameters for effectiveness of the dominant sciences. How and why you move take on different characteristics. Tailoring is usually restricted to Physical Geometry Limitations inherent in the diversity of human anatomy. That is, if a person is too tall for you to reach the prescribed target, there is a tailored adjustment made, but the target change usually conforms to the same meridian for destructive effect, not personal preference. Motion-based-Kenpo Karate is 90% Tailoring, SubLevel 4 is the opposite with a 90% structured curriculum because your body has effective limitations. Remember, our priority is supposed to be self-defense, not as Ed Parker stated, Useless motion. We tend to forget that although Chinese-Kenpo is ancient, the whole of American Kenpos interpretations are a relatively recent development. With the inclusion of Kenpo-Karate and Chinese-Kenpo as the forerunners of the divergent commercial art practiced by most today, its still only about forty years old. Take away Chinese-Kenpo and it is considerably younger, but SL-4 draws from ancient sciences that have been proven. The difficulty was to put them into an efficient modern cultural context with a reasonably efficient time learning curve. Too Many Masters The one and only Senior Grandmaster of American Kenpo was not yet sixty years old when he passed away. In Chinese terms, he would be considered just beginning to move into his prime. Most of the subsequent self-proclaimed Grandmasters of his commercial art got there much faster than even he did. Yet Ed Parker was a perpetual student and was still learning until the day he passed on. He was a genius, and definitely accelerated the learning process from the Traditional Chinese. He was always exploring and accumulating more knowledge and never failed to remind students, One doesnt become great until they realize what they know is very little. What some now call evolution, Ed Parker called tailoring and rearrangement. They are doing what Ed Parker always taught for Motion-based-Kenpo. For this they should be commended. Unfortunately, however, this has given us too many young grandmasters of some very limited information. Although many are content with where they are and what they know, many others are exploring other arts not realizing much of what they seek is available closer to home. There is also a quite sizable group that would like more but is unwilling to give up what they think they already have along with the status of their belt ranks. Full cups dont have much room for improvement. For those truly interested, all that really matters in the end is continuing to educate oneself. Ed Parker always said, The mind is like a parachute, it only works when its open. If something is missing in your or your instructors Kenpo, ask intelligent questions, and expect reasonable answers. My Lessons Much of the SubLevel 4 information comes from my own lesson notes. Mr. Parker dictated the core and laid the foundation. He constantly scrutinized, examined, and decided what he personally wanted. This forced me to ultimately write my own Coursebooks. The information was, and as far as I know, is not available in written form anywhere else. Mr. Parker expected me to keep track of, and codify what we were doing at the time. It allowed him the freedom to think freely, and removed the burden of organizing the information. He really disliked organizing his thoughts sometimes because it slowed him down in the creation process. He often asked or assigned students organizational problems. He formed a foundation for me that I will be utilizing perpetually. His ideas form the foundation for my own study and creations. In my lessons he stressed the execution of a sound workable Default Technique to strengthen and solidify a firm foundation and physical vocabulary. I was never allowed to deviate. Unlike Motion-based-Kenpo which is plagued by what I call the what if syndrome, He mandated I understand the importance of a specific sequential structure. This is the completely opposite of the tailored flexibility concept found in his commercial teachings. Although experimentation was a part of my lessons, he was the one that initiated it, until he was satisfied with the results. He often changed his directions, and I had to flow with the lesson of the day. He told me what to do, how to do it, and a little at a time, the why. The why, was most important, because he taught me why you couldnt change techniques, not why you could. His lessons allowed Kenpo to be more destructive without maiming, as well as more passive if desired. In our curriculum, we do not attack the soft tissue of the eyes, throat or testicles because it isnt necessary for effectiveness. If you remove soft tissue assaults in Motion-based-Kenpo, what do you have left? Nothing remains but the blunt force trauma available to any unskilled person. Ed. Parker had a great working knowledge of manipulations, nerve applications, and energy disruptions. One of his goals was to insure the stability and execution of the self-defense technique against the street grappler. He emphasized street as opposed to strategies that might be employed in a competition venue. Anytime someone attacks you whether with a punch, kick or grab, the potential always exists for the situation to change to a grappling scenario. Therefore as you execute a defense, your body must be moved in a manner to insure it can not only Survive the Initial Assault, but withstand and control the constant forward pressure of someone trying to encircle or grapple you whether high or low. It is important that you are able to do this within the sequential flow of the technique. This is another place where method and manner of execution creating structural integrity makes this possible. The science of manipulations and ground fighting has been around for centuries, with many modern great experts (and personal friends of Parker) like the great Gene LaBell and Wally Jay. Ed Parkers approach was to focus on the how of not going to the ground first and groundwork second. After all Ed Parker was a black belt in jiu-jitsu of Okazaki influence. This has been explored, perfected, and included in the SL-4 curriculum. Motion Comparison Therefore, in comparison to a motion-based-Kenpo, SL-4 is not flexible. It is difficult for those with limited knowledge to understand. It is closer to traditional Chinese methods than freeform Kenpo. Even though there may be many tailored ways to perform Mr. Parkers techniques, and even though those techniques are not wrong, they may not allow for a successful application of certain advanced principles. Ed Parker used to classify technique effectiveness on a scale of one through four. There is 1; ineffective, 2; effective, 3; more effective, and 4; most effective. SubLevel Four Kenpo is a natural 4. Techniques become less abstract. Kenpo techniques that have seemed ineffective or only marginally effective are, in fact, remarkably effective. In short, SubLevel Four Kenpo gives the art the credit it truly deserves as you move from Motion-based-Kenpo Karates martial art, to SubLevel 4s Martial Science. Simply put, Kenpo-Karate is motion based. SubLevel Four Kenpo is anatomically based, like all physical endeavors that require a level of effectiveness. From lifting weights to making a tackle, or jumping hurdles in track, there is one right way. You would think that when a persons well-being is in jeopardy they would understand that. Lastly, it is important to not consider Ed Parkers motion based commercial product an evolution of Ed Parkers work, but instead it is more of a divergence. Although Parker continued to evolve from his original teachings, his creation for the masses grew beyond his control and for some became the Kenpo. In reality, it was only a Kenpo that served its purpose of proliferation well, but is very different from Ed Parkers personal art that wasnt an art at all. It is truly an advanced martial science. Dr. Chapl
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