Kempo Curriculum | Shorinji

Focus: Decision Making (Sente vs. Go no sen). Brown belts are expected to no longer wait for an attack.

This is what separates Shorinji Kempo from Aikido or Judo. Randori is not competition; it is controlled free sparring where the goal is to apply what you learned in Hokei against a wild, unpredictable attack.

The curriculum distinguishes three types:

Randori is graded not on who "wins," but on Zanshin (awareness), Ma-ai (distance), and the ability to switch between Go and Ju.

Shorinji Kempo is a modern Japanese martial art founded in 1947 by Doshin So. Its curriculum blends physical techniques, moral education, and community practice to form a program meant to develop character as much as fighting ability. This essay examines the curriculum’s structure, pedagogical logic, technical content, and broader social aims, arguing that Shorinji Kempo functions as an integrated system where technique and ethics mutually reinforce one another.

Shorinji Kempo’s kumite is non-competitive. It is called Yakusoku kumite (agreed sparring) and Jiyū kumite (free sparring). However, even jiyū kumite is not competition; it is a mutual training session where power is controlled and intent is cooperative. Strikes are pulled (sun dome). The goal is not to win but to test waza against a resisting partner while maintaining rikai (understanding). shorinji kempo curriculum

Contrast with Kyokushin or Muay Thai: no tournaments exist in Shorinji Kempo. This absence is deliberate and curricular — competition breeds ego, which contradicts sōgo fujo.

Shorinji Kempo is divided into distinct curriculum streams based on demographics:

The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is a holistic educational system. By integrating the "Hard" (Goho) and "Soft" (Juho) systems, the art provides a comprehensive self-defense capability. However, the defining characteristic of the curriculum is the integration of Seiho (healing) and Kongo Zen (philosophy). This structure ensures that as a student’s physical ability to cause harm increases, their moral responsibility and ability to heal increase in parallel. The ranking system reinforces this, serving as a measure of character development as much as technical prowess.

The Shorinji Kempo curriculum is a structured path that balances physical technique, mental discipline, and philosophical education. Founded in 1947 by Doshin So, the system is designed not just for self-defense, but to develop individuals who can contribute to a peaceful society. Core Technical Pillars

The physical curriculum is divided into three main categories of technique: Colored Belts (5th-1st Kyu) : Introduction to more

Goho (Hard Techniques): Striking-based defenses including punches (tsuki), kicks (keri), and blocks (uke).

Juho (Soft Techniques): Grappling-based defenses such as releases from grabs, pins, and throws.

Seiho (Healing Techniques): A system for adjusting the body and improving health, often involving pressure points or massage to balance the nervous system. Ranking and Progression

Beginner's guide - East London Shorinji Kempo - Practical Martial Art

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: