Kenpo literally means principles of the fist. It is a Japanese term for mixed martial art form from Japan. Kenpo is also spelt as Kempo in some transliterations. It is a combination of martial art techniques from Karate and various Chinese martial arts. In Japan, Kempo is a term used to describe many different Japanese martial arts. This term is often loosely used to describe the martial art forms with long names.

Kenpo is a Japanese combat art which was developed from the Chinese martial arts. Over the years, Kenpo developed as a distinct form of martial art. It underwent so many changes in style that the present day Kenpo has no resemblance with the Chinese martial arts from which it once originated. Many martial art forms claim to have developed from the original Chinese Kenpo. But there is not enough evidence to prove the claims. Gradually, a new form of karate called Kenpo Karate can rightfully claim to be derived from the original Kenpo. Kenpo Karate was popularized in the US by Ed Parker. Karate had become a rage in the USA. The history of development of Kenpo Karate is a controversial one. But we can safely say that it was Ed Parker who popularized this martial art form in the USA.

Kenpo gives importance to mind, body, and soul. These three aspects should be in balance to have an ideal life. This is of course true to all the other oriental martial art disciplines. Kenpo teachings have been traditionally handed down to its disciples by the masters. Kenpo practitioners also used weapons effectively. For a long time, Kenpo was practiced by certain clans as fighting techniques. Later, Kenpo became a part of the Japanese culture. Kenpo was also used by the Samurai warriors in Japan. Kenpo is also influenced by the Zen philosophy. Kenpo helps the practitioners develop qualities such as patience, fearlessness, compassion, generosity, simplicity etc. Mastering the Kenpo techniques require years of practice.

The goal is to master the techniques in such a way that the master need not even think about defending or attacking. He or she instinctively knows and the attacking or defending becomes effortless. The mastery of the Kenpo techniques will enable the practitioners to bring effortlessness into his or her every action. Coordination of the upper and lower body is of supreme importance for a Kenpo exponent. Building of moral character is an important ingredient of Kenpo training. In many ways, the Kenpo philosophy is similar to the Chinese philosophy. Styles have evolved over the years and techniques have been perfected. But the basic philosophies of the oriental martial arts are similar in nature. Kenpo is an ideal self defense technique which can be learned by anyone. It is also a good discipline for physical fitness.