Matt Barnes' Kempo Page

The Forms of Shaolin Kempo Karate

There are a wide variety of forms in the Shaolin Kempo Karate system. They fall into roughly five categories:

The Pinans:

These are the forms that represent the 'Karate' roots of Shaolin Kempo Karate.

The Kata series:

These are the true back bone of Shaolin Kempo.

Shaolin Kempo Black Belt Forms:

These tend to move in a much more flowing manner. Some describe them as more 'kung fu', but they aren't from any recognized system of Chinese Martial Arts.


Others:

Some are required for rank in most SKK schools, and some are more 'late additions' by the separate groups.


Weapon Forms:

Under black belt forms tend to use the bo (6' staff), and black belt forms use a wider variety of weapons.