Belt Requirements Home
Contents
Contact Us

Home
Instruction/Training
No Hidden Fees
Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu
MMA/Shootfighting®
Studio Locations
Schedule
News & Events
Photo Gallery
Martial Arts History
Belt Requirements
About Us
FAQs
Favorite Links
Facebook
MySpace
YouTube
Flickr

 

 

Hit Counter



IMPORTANT NOTE:  Be sure to hit your web browser's "refresh" or reload button (F5 key in Windows or on a Mac) to be sure you are viewing the latest updates and current version of this page

Studio & Belt Testing Requirements Share

bulletHistory of the Self-Defense Techniques
bulletAdult Belt Requirements
bulletHistory of the Katas of Kenpo
bulletYouth Belt Requirements (ages 12 & younger)


More coming soon ...
Last Updated 10/18/10

A Brief History of Kenpo Self-Defense Techniques

The heart of the Kenpo System, and therefore the belt requirements, has always been practicaleffective—self-defense techniques.  This was the nucleus of the original “War Arts” as taught by both James Mitose and William Chow.  When Ed Parker brought this system to the United States mainland in the 1950's he continued this tradition, with Kata being relegated to a minor, unimportant role.  The typical class started with a light warm-up, then basics, followed by about 45 minutes of self-defense techniques and ended with freestyle for the advanced classes.

The techniques originally taught to the Tracy brothers by Ed Parker were the same techniques taught to him by Professor Chow, and in many instances there was a story behind the techniques and their applications.

Note:  Ed was just a fresh young Black Belt (1956) who was teaching exactly what he had been taught (the Tracy brothers know—they saw his notes).  It wasn’t until years later that Ed started developing his own "unique" style of Kenpo based upon his "new" theories of self-defense applications of motion and its own language and terminology, which would become his new system called "American Kenpo".

The Tracy brothers were with Ed Parker while Kenpo was in its infancy in the United States.  They know what was original Kenpo—where changes were made—and by whom and why.  They know the “secrets” and where the “skeletons” are buried.  All of the new modern "authorities" and critics from American Kenpo did not even appear until almost 20 years after Ed Parker brought Kenpo to the mainland from Hawaii.

The advantage that Al and his brother Jim had over all the other students is that from the day they started studying Kenpo they wrote down and filmed (8mm in those days) everything they ever learned—a practice followed to this day.  In the third volume of the History of Kenpo Al Tracy shows clips from the early days of Kenpo over 50 years ago (1950’s-1960’s).

In 1961 Al and his brother Jim left Parker after training with him for four years (the last two years of which they ran his Pasadena studio) and moved to San Francisco to continue their college education.  They had planned to open a Karate studio in San Francisco to earn the money to put themselves through Hastings Law School.  After opening their first studio on Ocean Avenue one of their first goals was to organize Kenpo into a more logical and comprehensive system.  The first thing they did was to create the colored belt system.  Then they filled in the requirements for each belt.  They went through their card file, which contained the hundreds of self defense techniques they’d learned, and divided them into groups of 40 each; these became the original and first requirements for each belt in Kenpo.  Over the years the original techniques have remained the same.  Each new manual revision has been designed to make the order and number of techniques taught for each belt level more logical, which is why they reduced the requirements to 30 techniques for each belt between 1976-1978—but many more variations were added at each level.  Also, all techniques that would be required in Katas would be taught at an earlier belt level to give the student several months to practice and understand the techniques before they are needed for a Kata.  And with few exceptions the techniques as taught in the Katas are identical to those taught as self-defense techniques at the different belt levels.

With this accomplished they then created names for each self defense technique and put them all under copyright.  Years later when Ed Parker decided to follow their format he adopted their colored belt system.  They offered to let him use the original names they had created, but he decided to develop his own set of names for the identical techniques.  At one time all you needed was a cross reference to see that our “Heel Hook” was identical to Ed’s “Scraping Hoof”.  This is no longer possible because as Ed started evolving his own theories and principles of self-defense, many of the original techniques were changed or dropped completely to reflect Ed Parker’s “new concepts”.

It is not our intention to pass judgment one way or the other upon the system of Kenpo developed by Ed Parker.  What we want to present is a clear choice to the students and instructors of Kenpo.  Ed Parker named his new system American Kenpo—and rightfully so—to reflect the changes he had made.  As Ed pointed out, only 10-15% of his system was still the original Kenpo as taught to him by Professor Chow.  The confusion between Kenpo and American Kenpo lies mostly within the name, but also because Ed Parker taught both at one time or another.  If he had simply named his new system something without the word Kenpo in it, such as American Karate, we would not have all the confusion we have today in Kenpo, and between Kenpo and American Kenpo.

On the other hand Tracy’s has tried to preserve as much as possible the original system of Kenpo taught by James Mitose and William Chow.  And we will continuously be presenting more history and tying the past into the Kenpo we teach.

The choice is not between which is the more effective system—The Tracy System of Kenpo or American Kenpo—but which direction you personally want to follow.  It is obvious we have chosen to stay as much as possible with tradition and keep our roots tied to the past.

If you want the original, traditional Kenpo—follow Tracy’s.  If you believe there was a need for a major overhaul of the “old Kenpo”, or more pointedly that Ed Parker could have developed something new and better without actually studying or combining anything truly new to Kenpo, then your logical choice is to follow the teachings of Ed Parker.

Back to Top

©1991-1999 by Al Tracy.  All rights reserved.  No portion may be reproduced without permission.

 

 

The History & Origins of the Kenpo Katas (AKA Sets or Forms)

This is probably the only place you will find this information.

NOTE:  This is a "Rough" draft—but we wanted to get this information on the WEB as soon as possible.

While surfing the internet in recent months, Mr. Tracy could not believe all of the miss-information about Kenpo Katas.  The most misleading he has seen are especially about the origins and history of the Panther Set (Book Set).

Historical Background:  Al Tracy is the only person alive who was there when all Katas were introduced into Kenpo (with the exception of Nihanchi 1-2).

Below we have listed the Katas:

1. In the order they were introduced into Kenpo.
2. Then in the order they were originally taught.
3. The Katas taught by American Kenpo are in Red.
4. Tracy’s Kenpo teaches all of the Katas listed.

Historical background:  Kata is a Japanese term.  The Chinese terms are Sets and Forms.  Original Kenpo did not have Katas but there were over 30 different “Sets”.  Most of the sets were very short and were used as "Drills" … to be used for a specific purpose.  A classical example is the "Three Star Blocking Set" which was used to toughen the arms.  The most important of all the sets is the "Speed Set".  When you are looking down the barrel of a gun it is a matter of life and death … this set may save your life.  The 3 & 5 Count Blocking Sets are used to practice the 5 major blocks of Kenpo.  Every class at Ed Parker’s original studio would use many of these Sets.

 

Order Chinese Sets (Katas) were Introduced Into Kenpo

Katas in Red are those taught in American Kenpo.  Original, Traditional Kenpo (Tracy's) teaches all Katas and Sets (Forms) listed.

Historical Note:  All original Katas were developed using traditional Kenpo Self-Defense Techniques.  “American Kenpo” did not begin to exist until almost 10 years later.  This is why there are so many differences between the way the techniques in American Kenpo are done and the way they are done in the Katas in American Kenpo, because in American Kenpo the Katas came first, often preserving the more original version of the technique, but only in the Kata.

1.  Nihanchi 1-2 - James Mitose - 1937

2.  Finger Set - First Kata/Set created by Ed Parker - 1959
The Finger Set ties together many of the hand or finger movements of Kenpo and was designed by Ed Parker to be used as a demonstration set when you wanted 20-30 people to move in unison.  The only problem is if one person does something wrong it makes the whole group look bad.

3.  Moving Finger Set—more about this set later
There are more versions of Moving Finger Set than any other Kenpo Kata.  We teach the most common version.  Never a major set, it is primarily still taught so that it will not be lost.

4.  Two Person Set - James Lee - 1959-60
This is the Kata that replaced The Panther Set (Book Set) in Ed Parker's book Secrets of Chinese KarateBlack Belt Set or 2 Person Set got the name Black Belt Set because it was the highest Kata required when Katas began to be required for promotion to Black belt (1960-61).  The set is also known as "The Two Man Set" or "The Two Man Black Belt Set".  In the early days of Kenpo (1956-62) this was the most advanced set taught as a requirement for "Black Belt".

There are two halves of this Kata, both of which are taught and demonstrated separately and together.  Since this is a two person Kata it is very exacting and must be practiced over and over with the same partner (so be sure to choose a partner who will be around for a while).  It is also an excellent tool for learning to make adjustments to new and different partners.  The set is a great one to perform at demonstrations because the audience can see the actual application of each move, as opposed to most Katas where the audience only sees ambiguous or dance-like movements.

5.  Panther Set (Book Set) - Bunji - James Woo
The nickname "Book Set" comes from the fact it was meant to be the Kata featured in Ed Parker's Book, Secrets of Chinese Karate.  Because of problems developed between Ed and James Wing Woo* (the man who had been helping with the book) this set was removed from the book and replaced with "The Two Person Set".

*Historical Note:  James Wing Woo was given the cover and a feature article in the November 1990 issue of Inside Kung-Fu magazine.  As you can see from the list on this page, he had the single largest influence in the development of our Kenpo Katas.  Others of note who had an influence in the development of our Kenpo system include:  James Lee, Professor T. Y. Wong of the Sil Lum system, Bruce Lee, Ralph Castro, Rick Jason and Joe Lewis, just to name a few.

6.  Five Section Punching Set - James Woo

7.  Eighteen Section Punching Set - James Woo

8.  Tam Tui - James Woo
This is a classic "Chinese Set" also spelled Tan Tui.  There are at least 10 different major versions of this training set.  Some systems teach as few as 6 sections and others have as many as 18.  The correct number of sections is 12.  The Chinese Muslims** have their own version which has 10 sections.  This set is known for its development of strong legs and stances.  Done properly it provides an excellent workout in conjunction with many beneficial martial arts hand and leg movements.  The set is comprised of a series of repeated movements done in a straight line.  You do as many of the repeated movements of each section as you have room for in your training area, with 6-8 being the standard.

**Historical Note:  When China was ruled by Genghis Khan and his followers they ruled with such a bloody hand that many of the Chinese officials were hesitant to enforce laws against their fellow religious believers.  Genghis Khan solved this by bringing in Muslims who considered all the Chinese as infidels and had no qualms about shedding blood.

9.  2 Man Tam Tui - James Woo

10. Tai Chi - Yang Style - James Woo

11. Tiger and Crane - James Woo
This Kata was developed in the 1800's by Wong Fei-Hung of the Hung Gar Kung-Fu system.  The Chinese Master Lam Sai-Wing, who studied directly under Wong Fei-Hung, subsequently published three books on the Hung Gar System.  If you compare drawings from his book, you can see how close most of his movements are to our version even after almost 200 years.

There has been some misunderstanding about the use of the Tiger and Crane as a "Classic" Kenpo set.  The "Tiger and Crane" (Fu Hok Seung Ying) is the definitive form of the Hung Gar system containing all the complete self-defense hand movements of the style.  The "Tiger and Crane" is the bridge between the system we have now and the original system that Professor Chow learned and passed on to Ed Parker.  Ed, in turn, introduced Kenpo taught to him by Professor Chow to the United States mainland.  As modern as the "Kenpo" system is, this Kata keeps us aware of one origin of our art, namely the Katas of Kenpo.  For this reason we continue to teach the "Tiger and Crane".  It should be noted the "American Kenpo" system does not have or teach this Kata.

Done properly, the "Tiger" section alone of the "Tiger and Crane" is one of the most beautiful and powerful of all Katas.  For this reason it is possible to get high scores in competition even from Japanese or Korean judges, even though the form is Chinese.

Tiger and Crane (only the Tiger section is usually performed) is the #1 winning Kenpo Kata in the United States for tournament competitions and demonstrations.  If you want to develop one winning Kata for competition, this is it.

Special Note:  There is some controversy over Professor William K. S. Chow, the co-founder (along with James Mitose) of the style we call Kenpo, originally being trained by his father (Hoon "Hun" Chow) in the "Classical" Chinese martial arts—namely, "Hung Gar".

Professor William Kwai Sun Chow, (1914-1987) died in Honolulu, Hawaii on September 20, 1987 at the age of 74.

James Masayoshi Mitose, (1915-1981) was born December 30, 1915 in Kona, Hawaii and died in Folsom, California on March 26, 1981 at the age of 65.  You will often see his date of birth incorrectly stated as 1916.

Order Kenpo Katas were Created and Originally Taught

After the above Chinese Sets (Katas) were introduced into Kenpo the following Katas were created for Kenpo, using many theories and movements from these classic Chinese Forms or Sets.

Al Tracy has been giving Seminars around the US explaining and demonstrating the origins of all the Kenpo Katas.  In the future this information will most likely be released on DVD.

1.  Short #1 (4 Shields) - 10 Pattern Kata - Woo & Parker
A basic blocking routine, this Kata teaches two of the simplest concepts of defense against a strike—distance (stepping back) and blocking.  It ties together the 4 most basic blocks (the four shields) with their most basic foot patterns.  The pattern it follows—the 4 points on the compass—are often referred to as a "10 Pattern" because of the number 10 in Chinese.  Because it is the first Kata taught, and introduces what Katas are, students often comment that it felt like the hardest Kata they ever learned, even though it's the shortest Kata we teach—at only 8 steps long.

2.  Short #2 (Cat Set) - Star Pattern

3.  Short #3 (Single Escape set)

4.  Black Belt Set

Historical Note: The above 4 Katas were the original and first Kata requirements for "Black Belt"

5.  Long #1 (Shield and Mace)

6.  Long #2 (Continuous Set)

7.  Long #3 (Double Escape Set)
All the techniques in this Kata are defenses against grab attacks (chokes, wrist grabs, waist grabs, etc.)  This Kata marks the transition into the format of the advanced Kenpo Katas that will follow, as from this point on most of the Katas will require the techniques to be done on both sides.  It is by far the most difficult Kata up to this point (as it precedes Tiger & Crane). 

8.  Long #4 (Definitive Set)
This is "The Classic Kenpo Kata".  Comprised of 20 sections of self-defense techniques and basics, it takes between 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 3 minutes to perform.  It is Ed Parker's masterpiece—developed in the early 1960's.  If you perfect* only one Kenpo Kata, let it be this one.  The Kata is always taught the same, but each student will have a slightly different interpretation.  This is the way it should be in Chinese Sets or Katas.

*When one can do the Kata well enough to perform it in competition

Historical Note:  Ed Parker and James Woo jointly created all of the above Katas, with the exception of the Black Belt Set.

9.  Staff Set (#3 Staff Set or Chinese Staff) - Created by Chuck Sullivan
Formerly #1 Staff—this set is almost impossible for a person to do unless he or she has been trained in the use of Chinese weapons.  This is a unique set in that each section shows a completely different use of the staff.  A very fine set to learn the practical application of the staff rather than just "show'; however, done properly this set can be quite spectacular.  Many years ago Sandy Sandoval—a Kenpo practitioner—won the Weapons Grand Championship at the Seattle Open with the #3 Staff Set.  He also won the Kata Grand Championship (against all styles) with the Single Escape Set (Short #3 Kata).

10. Long #5 (Takedown or Transition Set)
All of the techniques in this Kata have a different take-down or have the opponent on the ground.  This Kata contains 10 of the most difficult Kenpo techniques—but what makes it so much more challenging are the transitions between techniques.  From an artistic point of view it is not one of the better looking Kenpo sets; however, it was not designed to look pretty.  It is a Kata that requires complete knowledge and mastery of some very complicated techniques with intricate transitions and adjustments from one technique to the next.  Technically more difficult than the Definitive Set (Long #4) and not as much fun—but very satisfying when you can do it right.

11. Long #6 (Weapons Set) - There are several versions of Long #6
All the techniques in this Kata are defenses against weapons: gun, knife or club.  This is a long, difficult and extremely technical Kata.  The opening to this Kata is almost a Kata in itself (it's more steps than 4 Shields, the first Kata taught).

Historical Note:  Ed Parker created Long #5 and Long #6 in the mid 1960's—after Ed Parker and James Woo went their own separate ways.  Ed Parker would not create any more Katas for almost 20 years until he created #7 and #8.

12. Long #7 (Advancing Set)
This is one of the best Katas in the Kenpo system—strictly for the advanced Kenpo practitioner who knows all the individual techniques.  This is a complex and demanding Kata in the best tradition of Kenpo.  Although this Kata contains many difficult techniques, the smooth transitions and placement of the techniques in relation to one another make it a fine Kata to be required for the upper ranked Black Belts.

13. Long #8 (The Twin Set)
The name "Twin" comes from the fact the techniques are done in pairs; one technique in each set is a Twin (but not an identical twin) of the other.  Examples: "Darkness" followed by the opposite side of "Brushing Wind"; "Opening the Fan" followed by the opposite side of "The Sickle".  The Twin Set also contains rolls and falls as well as intricate ground work and a variety of kicks.

The Twin Set (Long #8) is one of the requirements for 5th Black Beltand is one of the longest and most challenging Katas in any system (and this is only the "A" side—there is also a "B" side—a "twin" of the Kata!).  Don't be fooled by the "#8" designation; it is the most difficult and exhausting of all Kenpo sets.  The entire Kata contains 56 self-defense techniques—almost two belt's worth.

STORY TIME:  When the Tracy brothers started studying with Ed Parker they asked him what "title" he wanted them to use.  His reply was not Sensei, Sifu, or Master.  It was simply "Ed".**

Historical Note: **Ed—Ed Parker.  When Al Tracy started studying with Ed Parker he was 22 years old and Ed Parker was 27—at his peak as an athlete and martial artist.

Many of the top Kenpo people refer to Ed Parker as the "Old Man".  Al Tracy's response is that he never studied with the "OLD MAN".  The Ed Parker he studied with was a 195 pound, 6 foot tall, young, slim, trim fighting machine.

Origins of the Weapon Sets And Other Chinese Sets in Kenpo

Since Kenpo lacked any weapons forms Al Tracy spent over 30 years studying with many different Chinese Masters to enable him to add practical Weapon Sets, as well as a few other major Chinese hand sets, to the Tracy System of Kenpo.

Historical Note:  When the Tracy brothers first started Kenpo (1957) there was a complete lack of any real history of the origins of the art of Kenpo.  As it turned out our heritage came from the Japanese Yoshida Clan and the Kenpo art was based upon the "RENZI" sect of "ZEN BUDDHISM"—which was a self-defense system that DID NOT ALLOW THE USE OF ANY WEAPONS.

1.  Japanese Sword Set - 1964-65
This set is an introduction to blade weapons—this was the first blade weapon set Al Tracy ever learned—and as such it has remained a favorite.  It was taught to him by the father of one of his students who was Japanese.  It is the only non-Chinese weapon set we teach.

2.  Chinese Sword Set - 1964-65

3.  Wong Family Hand Set (Shaolin Hand Set) - Wai Wong
This was a family hand set given to Al Tracy by Wai Wong.  He was also out of the Hung Gar style, but each family had its own set that was passed down and kept in the family from one generation to the next. There is almost no other Chinese set this complete:  almost all of the hand weapons are used, along with their breakdown and applications.  Many hand weapons cannot be used today because of the length of time—along with the medicines used and required—for developing the hands.

4.  Dark Room Staff (#1 Staff Set) - Doi Wai
This set is a good, solid introduction to the staff ("Bo" in Japanese) as a weapon—it contains many of the stances, spins, and hand exchanges that will be needed in later weapon katas—and is a set that can be used by beginners for early weapon competition.  Even at the Black Belt level if done properly, with power and focus, this set can be used in competition against any classical weapon Katas.  Trophies and medals have been won at all levels with this set.

5.  Skylight Staff (#2 Staff Set) - Doi Wai
This set teaches you to develop power with the staff—and teaches full length uses of the staff to develop reach and power.  Done properly it is as powerful as any set out there.  While it has classical Chinese applications it can stand on its own against any hard style weapons.  Skylight Staff is a power set that can be used in any competition when you must compete against traditional Japanese and Okinawan staff sets.

6.  Skylight Spear - Doi Wai
This set is interchangeable with Skylight Staff—with modifications.  These two sets demonstrate the relationship and the differences between two similar weapons—and that the spear is not just a staff with a blade at the end.

7.  Chinese Set - Master Houng

8.  Little Tiger - Doi Wai
There are two versions of Little Tiger.  The version we teach is the one Mr. Tracy has been teaching since 1970—and NO, this Kata is neither a short version of, nor has anything to do with, the "Tiger" section of Tiger & Crane.  It is a completely separate Chinese set.

9.  Butterfly Knives (3 Sets)- Doi Wai
There are three Butterfly Knife sets.  Butterfly Wings is an introduction to the "Butterfly Knives".  From a practical standpoint the butterfly knives are a very sensible, effective weapon and the personal favorite of many a Chinese master since they could easily be concealed.  In their crudest form they are a short range hacking weapon.  They are a natural for the Kenpo practitioner because of the similarity in their use to our empty hand movements.  And there is the advantage they are used in pairs just as we use two hands.  There are three sets that make up this butterfly series:  Butterfly Wings, Basic Butterfly and Iron Butterfly.

The first, Butterfly Wings, is the introductory set.  Basic Butterfly is the most practical and Iron Butterfly is the most difficult.

 

Check back for more history and information to be added later ...

Back to Top

©1991-1999 by Al Tracy.  All rights reserved.  No portion may be reproduced without permission.

 


ADULT BELT REQUIREMENTS

THE TRACY SYSTEM OF KENPO®
Self-Defense Techniques & Katas

YELLOW BELT THRU 5TH DEGREE BLACK BELT
Total Self-Defense Techniques = 381 plus 219 variations for a total of 600 techniques and variations
(Total techniques and variations are shown along with a running total for reference)
Copyright © 1991-1999 The Tracy System of Kenpo

Yellow Belt
8th GradeHachikyu
10 + 3 = 13  total = 13

Orange Belt
7th GradeShichikyu
30 + 42 = 72  total = 85

Purple Belt
6th GradeRokkyu
30 + 32=62  total = 147

No Kata Required

FOUR SHIELDS (Short 1)

SHIELD & MACE (Long 1)
CAT SET
(Short 2)

1.  JAPANESE SWORD (AB) 1.  ATTACKING CIRCLE 1.  STRIKING MACE
2.  CHINESE SWORD (AB) 2.  SUMO 2.  CROSSING TALON (ABC)
3.  DELAYED SWORD 3.  JAPANESE STRANGLE HOLD (ABCD E) 3.  CIRCLING ELBOWS
4.  KNEE OF VENGEANCE 4.  BLOCKING THE KICK (ABC DE) 4.  LOCKING ARM (AB)
5.  FANG OF THE COBRA (AB) 5.  HEADLOCK (ABC) 5.  WINDMILL GUARD (AB)
6.  TWISTING TALON (AB) 6.  CRASH OF THE EAGLE ­ PART I (ABCD E) 6.  SPIRALING WRIST (AB)
7.  RETURNING DRAGON 7.  GRASPING TALON (AB) 7.  CRASH OF THE EAGLE PART II 
(ABC DEFG HI)
8.  BREAKING THE SWORD 8.  TACKLE TECHNIQUES (ABC D) 8.  ENCIRCLING ARMS (ABC D)
9.  KENPO SHIELD (AB) 9.  DANCER 9.  RISING ELBOW
10. EVASION 10. OPPONENT AT SIDES (ABCD) 10. GUARDING THE WALL
11. PASSING THE HORIZON (AB) 11. EAGLE PIN
12. KIMONO GRAB (AB) 12. STRIKING FANG (AB)
13. LEVER (ABC) 13. SHACKLE BREAK (A BC)
14. CRASHING ELBOW (AB) 14. DRAWBRIDGE (AB)
15. HEEL HOOK 15. FULL NELSON
16. BRIDGE (AB) 16. KUNG FU CROSS
17. EAGLE'S BEAK (ABC) 17. DIVIDED SWORDS (AB)
18. FRONT BEAR-HUG (A BCD) 18. GIFT
19. SIMITAR 19. OPENING COWL (AB)
20. BREAKING THE CROSS 20. SLICING DRAGON
21. AIMING THE SPEAR 21. ASCENDING TO HEAVEN (ABC)
22.  RAISING THE STAFF 22. RAISING THE SWORD
23.  LOWERING THE GATE (AB) 23. ARM HOOK (AB)
24.  ROCKING ELBOW 24. CROSSING THE SUN (ABC)
25.  REVERSE HAMMER-LOCK (AB) 25. ATTACK FROM THE TEMPLE (ABC)
26.  ANVIL (ABC D) 26. Kneeling Prayer (AB)
27.  KNEE LIFT 27. DART
28.  CRANE LEAP 28. COVERING TALON (AB)
29. DRIVING ELBOWS (AB) 29. WING BREAK (AB)
30. CROSSING GUARD (AB) 30. "U" PUNCH (AB)

 

Blue Belt
5th GradeGokyu
30 + 7 = 37  total = 184

Green Belt
4th GradeYonkyu
30 + 14 = 44  total = 228

3RD Brown Belt
3rd GradeSankyu
30 + 14 = 44  total = 272

Continuous Set (Long 2)
Single Escape Set
(Short 3)

Double Escape Set (Long 3)
PANTHER SET
(Book Set)

Definitive Set (Long 4)
Darkroom Staff
(#1 Staff)

1.  TURNING THE HANDLE 1.  SNAPPING THE ROD 1.  SPINNING HAMMERS
2.  BRIDGING THE GAP 2.  TURNING THE KEY (AB) 2.  DANCE OF DEATH (AB)
3.  ADVANCING PHOENIX (AB) 3.  THE BUTTERFLY (AB) 3.  LEAP OF DEATH
4.  2 HEADED SERPENT 4.  WHIRLING WARRIOR (A BC) 4.  MISS OF THE LEAP (ABCD)
5.  REVERSING GRASP (AB) 5.  FLOWING HANDS 5.  EAGLE CLAW
6.  REACHING FOR THE MOON 6.  WHIRLING BLADES (AB) 6.  EAGLE MISS
7.  FLASHING DAGGERS 7.  THRUSTING LIMB (ABC) 7.  FOOT RAKE
8.  BENDING THE LIMB 8.  CROSSING HAMMERS (ABC) 8.  SLEEPER (AB)
9.  WRAP-AROUNDS (AB CD) 9.  2 MAN SWINGING GATE 9.  STARTLED CAT (AB)
10. CROUCHING FALCON 10. SWEEPING BRANCHES 10. MANCHURIAN TAKEDOWN
11. DARTING SERPENT (AB) 11. KNEE SWEEP 11. SHAOLIN WARRIOR (AB C)
12. SILK WIND 12. KUNG FU WRIST 12. SPRINGING TIGER
13. SPREADING THE LEAVES 13. STONE WARRIOR (AB) 13. RAKING THE GROUND
14. CROSSING THE LOCK 14. PRAYING MANTIS 14. SLICING KNEE
15. DARKNESS 15. DRUMS OF MANCHU 15. TURNING THE ROD
16. SPINNING FROM THE SUN 16. SOWING THE SEEDS 16. EAGLE'S TALONS
17. FOLDING WINGS 17. FLASHING WINGS 17. CROSSING DARTS
18. VISE 18. PARTING THE WAVES (AB) 18. BENDING THE STAFF
19. SWINGING GATE 19. WINDING LIMBS (ABC) 19. DROPPING THE STAFF
20. STRETCHING THE BOW 20. BRUSHING WIND 20. THE ESCAPE
21. ARCING BLADES (AB) 21. THUNDERING HAMMERS 21. UNCOVERING THE FLAME (AB)
22. CIRCLE OF CHINA 22. CHECKING THE TIDE 22. OPENING THE FAN (AB)
23. SILENT ESCAPE (AB) 23. CROSSING THE MOUNTAIN 23. DOUBLE BLADES (ABC D)
24. RETURNING VIPER 24. WHIRLING LEAVES (AB C) 24. CLAWING PANTHER
25. RETURNING THUNDER 25. SWEEPING WINGS 25. SPEAR OF JADE (ABC)
26. THE SERPENT 26. KNEELING TIGER 26. 3 WINDS CLAW (ABCD)
27. BROKEN STAFF 27. THE LOTUS 27. 3 WINDS FIST (ABCD)
28. CIRCLING SERPENT 28. ATTACKING THE WALL (AB) 28. CHINESE COBRA
29. CHINESE "L" CHOKE 29. 7 SWORDS (AB) 29. THE PHOENIX
30. 5 SWORDS 30. REVERSING HAMMERS 30. RETREATING PHOENIX (AB)

 

2ND Brown Belt
2nd GradeNikyu
30 + 14 = 44  total = 326

1ST Brown Belt
1st GradeIkkyu
30 + 18 = 48  total = 374

1ST Black Belt
1ST Degree—Shodan
30 + 17 = 47  total = 421

TIGER & CRANE
SKYLIGHT STAFF
(#2 Staff)

Takedown Set (Long 5)
MASS ATTACK
(both sides)

Weapon Set (Long 6)
TWO PERSON SET
(A & B Sides)

1.  HIDDEN FIST (AB) 1.  LEGIONS OF MING 1.  CHINESE PINCERS (AB)
2.  ROCKER 2.  FISH HOOK 2.  CROSSING HOOKS
3.  CIRCLING THE SUN (ABCD) 3.  THE SICKLE 3.  TURNING THE FLAME (AB)
4.  LEVELING THE CLOUDS 4.  THE DAGGER (AB) 4.  STOPPING THE STAFF
5.  PLUCKING A BIRD FROM THE SKY 5.  MANTIS 5.  TWISTING VINE
6.  SLEEVES OF CHINA 6.  WHIRLING MANTIS 6.  BREAKING THE STAVES (AB)
7.  MONKEY ELBOW (AB) 7.  STICKS OF SATIN (AB) 7.  HANDS OF JADE
8.  STRIKING ASP (AB C) 8.  DIVING HAWK 8.  SPINNING LOG
9.  SHOOTING STAR 9.  ADVANCING HAMMERS 9.  LEVER OF MING (AB)
10. PUSHING THE CIRCLE (A BC) 10. SWEEPING ARM HOOK 10. THE LION (AB)
11. CIRCLES OF GLASS 11. SNAPPING TWIG 11. DOUBLE LANCE (ABC DE)
12. JAPANESE HANDS 12. BREAKING THE YOKE 12. COVERING THE MOON
13. WATERWHEEL (AB) 13. PRAYER OF DEATH 13. RETURNING FIST (AB)
14. TUMBLING CLOUDS (AB C) 14. RAISING THE SHIELD 14. FALLING BLADES
15. RISING KICK 15. CIRCLING THE PAGODA (A BC) 15. DANCE OF THE DRAGON
16. CRANE KICK 16. THE THISTLE 16. FALLING HAMMERS
17. SWEEPING SERPENT 17. PASSING WIND (ABC) 17. CORKSCREW (AB C)
18. COVERING THE FLAME (AB) 18. REVERSING WIND 18. THE WHIP
19. COBRA AND THE MONGOOSE 19. TWISTING STAVES (AB) 19. WINDING ELBOWS (AB CDE)
20. CHINESE JUNK 20. GUIDING THE STAFF 20. TWISTING SERPENT
21. DANCE OF THE MONGOOSE 21. CYCLONE 21. CHOPPING THE LOG
22. OFFER OF DUST 22. DOUBLE SPEAR (ABC D) 22. FALLING TREE (A BC)
23. MING'S SWORD 23. CROSSING SWORDS 23. THE PYTHON (AB)
24. CHINESE FAN 24. WHIRLING THORN 24. TWISTING DRAGON
25. LOCKING THE GATE 25. THE WEDGE (A BC) 25. SLICING HANDS
26. WATER FALL 26. SLASHING COUGAR 26. THE SCORPION
27. PRANCE OF THE TIGER 27. TWISTING KNEE (ABC) 27. CHINESE THUMBSCREW (AB)
28. THE RAKE 28. DOUBLE ASP (A BCD) 28. 4 FISTS
29. 3 TONGUES OF THE DRAGON 29. ORIENTAL LEVER (AB) 29. ADVANCING DRAGON
30. BLOCKING THE SUN (AB) 30. PARTING THE REEDS 30. THE LOCK

 

2nd Black Belt
2nd DegreeNidan
30 + 21 = 51  total = 472

3rd Black Belt
3rd DegreeSandan
30 + 7 = 37  total = 509

4th Black Belt
4th DegreeYodan
30 + 2 = 32  total = 541

Advancing Set (Long 7)
Finger Set
(Standing & Moving)
Chinese Staff Set
(#3 Staff)
Skylight Spear
(#1 Spear)

LITTLE TIGER
4 & 8 POINT SPEAR
(#2 Spear)
Japanese Sword
(#1 Sword)
TAM TUI
WONG'S SHAOLIN HAND SET
BASIC BUTTERFLY
(#1 Butterfly)
CIRCULAR SPEAR
(#3 Spear)
1.  BROOM SWEEPS (ABCD EF GH) 1.  SWEEPING TIGER 1.  MOMENT OF TRUTH
2.  CLIMBING THE STAIRS (ABC DE) 2.  HOOKING EAGLE 2.  SOUND OF THUNDER
3.  FALCON (AB) 3.  CATCHING THE DRAGON'S TAIL 3.  PATH OF THE LEOPARD
4.  THE HAWK (AB) 4.  HANDS TO HEAVEN 4.  CRANE WINGS
5.  SPRINGING ROOSTER (AB) 5.  DRIVING FIST 5.  WINGS OF THE HAWK
6.  FLYING DRAGON (AB) 6.  CHINESE LOCK 6.  SWORDS OF CHINA
7.  SCISSORS (AB) 7.  ATTACK OF THE HAWK 7.  COILED HANDS
8.  CROUCHING TIGER 8.  LEOPARD'S FIST 8.  STALKING TIGER
9.  FALLING ROCK (AB) 9.  CHINESE CORKSCREW 9.  DOUBLE MACE
10. SPRINGING LIMB 10. TWISTING COBRA 10. THE WHEEL
11. FALLING MONKEY 11. MONKEY FIST 11. THE PANTHER STRIKES
12. SLASHING DRAGON 12. SHORT WIND 12. THE IRON PALM
13. TIBETAN KNEE 13. HANDS OF DEATH 13. FLOATING HANDS
14. TIBETAN ROLL 14. TWISTING LEOPARD (AB) 14. TWIN COBRAS
15. TAIL OF THE DRAGON (ABC) 15. BLOCKING THE DRAGON 15. JAPANESE CROSS
16. SLAPPING SILK 16. CIRCLE OF STEEL 16. BROKEN WING
17. TWISTING ROPE 17. THE ATTACKING DRAGON (AB) 17. HURRICANE (AB)
18. WRAPPING THE GIFT 18. STINGING BUTTERFLY 18. CHINESE PHOENIX
19. DOUBLE KNOT 19. WINDS FROM THE EAST (AB) 19. SPEAR OF VENGEANCE
20. HANGMAN 20. WINDS OF DESTRUCTION (ABC) 20. ARC OF STEEL
21. THE LEOPARD'S TAIL 21. SLASH OF STEEL 21. SHIELD OF IRON
22. FOLLOWING FIST (AB) 22. UNCOILING VIPER 22. KUNG FU SHIELD
23. HANDS OF AIR (AB) 23. LEAPING MONKEY 23. THE STEEL CIRCLE
24. WHIRLWIND (AB C) 24. CIRCLE OF FIRE 24. KNIFE OF VENGEANCE
25. DISAPPEARING HAND (AB) 25. MING'S HAMMER 25. DYING WIND
26. CHINESE HOOK (ABC) 26. DRAGON'S WHIP (AB) 26. STICK OF TRUTH
27. STICK OF DEATH 27. WHITE TIGER (AB) 27. MORNING THUNDER
28. BETRAYING STICK 28. WINDING FISTS 28. THREE TONGUES OF FIRE (ABC)
29. CATCHING THE COBRA 29. PATH OF DESTRUCTION 29. STEEL ENEMY
30. SPINNING FIRE 30. TAIL OF THE COBRA 30. RIDING THE STAFF

 

5th Black Belt
5th Degree—Godan
41 + 18 = 59  total = 600

THE TWIN SET (Long 8)
CHINESE SABER
(#3 Sword)

1.  SUMO (B) 2.  JAPANESE STRANGLE HOLD (F)
3.  HEADLOCK (DEF) 4.  CRASH OF THE EAGLE PART III (ABC)
5.  GRASPING TALON (C) 6.  DANCER (B)
7.  OPPONENT AT SIDES (EF) 8.  PASSING THE HORIZON (CD)
9.  KIMONO GRAB (C) 10. LEVER (DEF)
11. KNEE OF VENGEANCE (B) 12. TWO MAN CRASHING ELBOWS
13. BRIDGE (CD) 14. FRONT BEAR-HUG (EFGH)
15. AIMING THE SPEAR (BC) 16. SIMITAR (BC)
17. RAISING THE STAFF (B) 18. ROCKING ELBOW (B)
19. ANVIL (EF) 20. KNEE LIFT (B)
21. CRANE LEAP (EF) 22. CROSSING GUARD (C)
23. STRIKING FANG (C) 24. BREAKING THE SWORD (B)
25. ATTACK FROM THE TEMPLE (C) 26. Kneeling Prayer (C)
27. DART (B) 28. BRIDGING THE GAP (BC)
29. REVERSING GRASP (C) 30. FLASHING DAGGERS (B)
31. BENDING THE LIMB (B) 32. COVERING TALON (C)
33. DARKNESS (BC) 34. FOLDING WINGS (B)
35. ARCING BLADES (B) 36. FIVE SWORDS (BC)
37. FLOWING HANDS (B) 38. WHIRLING BLADES (C)
39. CROSSING HAMMERS (D) 40. THUNDERING HAMMERS (B)
41. CROSSING THE MOUNTAIN (B) TOTAL 600 TECHNIQUES AND VAR.
Back to Top

©1991-1999 by Al Tracy.  All rights reserved.  No portion may be reproduced without permission.

 


YOUTH BELT REQUIREMENTS
(For Children Ages 12 Years Old & Under)

The Youth Program covers children ages 5-12; youth who start at age 13+ will start on the Adult Program.  There will always be those borderline cases where we will have to make a value judgment.

Historical Note:  Decades ago (early 1980’s) Tracy's foresaw the “youth trend” in the martial arts (in many studios today youth and family enrollment runs between 50% and 80% of the total students), so we developed a separate Youth Program, setting new standards and requirements more in line with the youths’ age (5-12), knowledge and physical ability.

The objective of the youth program is to allow children to grow and develop in a self-defense program that is in direct relation to their age and physical ability.  There is no sport in the world that judges youth by adult standards.  By having a separate program and belt requirements, we can focus on quality vs. quantity, rather than either punishing them for their age (some studios do not allow them to advance beyond a certain level until they are 16-18, which means they sometimes learn nothing new for years until they are of the age allowed to promote) or compromising the integrity and intent of the complete original adult system and requirements (some studios give full “black belt” rank to someone under 16-18 years of age).

Historical Note:  Prior to the 1980's, it was rare for children under the age of 12 to even study the martial arts, and it was unheard of, in any system or style, to give a child "Dan" (black belt) rank.  Since many studios today have based their rates partially on rank and belt testing fees, it is of course beneficial to such studios to have as many different types of belts and levels so that they can have as many "te$ts" as possible, including "selling" black belt rank to children.  You cannot buy a Black Belt from Tracysyou must earn it—because we do not charge for testing.

The advantage of our youth program is that we use exactly the same self-defense techniques and Katas as our adults, but the amount of required material for each level has been scaled down.  Each youth belt level gets progressively more difficult. The technique requirements parallel the adult requirements; so all self-defense techniques for youth come out of the adult requirements.  The following are the number of techniques assigned to each belt (not including variations):

Jr. Yellow – 10
Jr. Orange – 12
Jr. Purple – 14
Jr. Blue – 16
Jr. Green – 18
Jr. 3rd Brown – 20
Jr. 2nd Brown – 22
Jr. 1st Brown – 24
Jr. 1st Black – 26

The awarding of rank and belts reflect the youth’s age.  It is to be understood that all belts through Youth Black are just that:  Youth belts.  (The diplomas read “Jr. Orange Belt”, etc.)  Youth 1st Black is distinguished as a black belt with a white colored stripe running the length of the belt.  After youth achieve Jr. 1st Black, they continue their training by meeting the full adult requirements for Orange belt on up—techniques and Katas—until they have achieved their Adult 1st Black, and then they progress through the normal degree system as adults.

Youth Written Quick Reference Manual

As a training aid, we allow and encourage all parents to buy this manual to assist their child with the requirements for each belt – and to be a part of their child’s training.  The manual covers all youth belts, from Jr. Yellow Belt thru Jr. 1st Black Belt with a complete breakdown step-by-step of the individual techniques—and the Kata requirements are listed as well.  This manual can be purchased for $45.

THE TRACY SYSTEM OF KENPO®
Self-Defense Techniques & Katas

JUNIOR YELLOW BELT THRU JUNIOR BLACK BELT
Total Self-Defense Techniques = 162 plus 67 variations for a total of 229 techniques and variations
(Total techniques and variations are shown along with a running total for reference)
Copyright © 1991-1999 The Tracy System of Kenpo

 

Jr. Yellow Belt Jr. Orange Belt Jr. Purple Belt
     

10 + 3 = 13  total = 13

12 + 15 = 27  total = 40

14 + 7 = 21  total = 61

No Kata Required

FOUR SHIELDS (Short 1)

CAT SET (Short 2)

 1.  Japanese Sword (AB)  1.  Attacking Circle  1.  Striking Mace
 2.  Chinese Sword (AB)  2.  Japanese Strangle Hold (ABCD)  2.  Crossing Talon (AB)
 3.  Delayed Sword  3.  Headlock (ABC)  3.  Circling Elbows 
 4.  Knee Of Vengeance  4.  Tackle Techniques (ABCD)  4.  Covering Talon (AB)
 5.  Fang Of The Cobra  5.  Dancer  5.  Windmill Guard
 6.  Twisting Talon (AB)  6.  Opponent At Sides (ABCD)  6.  Kung Fu Cross
 7.  Returning Dragon  7.  Crashing Elbow (AB)  7.  Attack from the Temple (AB)
 8.  Breaking the Sword  8.  Heel Hook  8.  Kneeling Prayer (AB)
 9.  Kenpo Shield  9.  Front Bearhug (A BC)  9.  Rising Elbow 
10. Evasion 10. Aiming the Spear 10. Guarding the Wall 
11. Crane Leap 11. Striking Fang (AB)
12. Driving Elbows (AB) 12. Shackle Break (A BC)
13. Full Nelson
14. 2 Headed Serpent

 

Jr. Blue Belt Jr. Green Belt Jr. 3RD Brown Belt
     

16 + 0 = 16  total = 77

18 + 4 = 22  total = 99

20 + 9 = 29  total = 128

Single Escape Set (Short 3) Darkroom Staff (#1 Staff) MASS ATTACK (Right Side)
 1.  Bridging the Gap  1.  The Butterfly   1.  Spinning Hammers
 2.  Advancing Phoenix  2.  Whirling Warrior  2.  Miss of the Leap
 3.  Flashing Daggers  3.  Flowing Hands  3.  Eagle Miss
 4.  Silk Wind  4.  Whirling Blades  4.  Sleeper
 5.  Spreading the Leaves  5.  Thrusting Limb (AB)  5.  Shaolin Warrior
 6.  Crossing the Lock  6.  Crossing Hammers  6.  Springing Tiger
 7.  Folding Wings  7.  2 Man Swinging Gate  7.  Slicing Knee
 8.  Vise  8.  Sweeping Branches  8.  Turning the Rod
 9.  Swinging Gate  9.  Knee Sweep  9.  Eagle's Talons
10. Stretching the Bow 10. Kung Fu Wrist  10. Crossing Darts
11. Arcing Blades 11. Stone Warrior (AB) 11. Bending the Staff
12. Circle of China 12. Praying Mantis 12. Uncovering the Flame
13. Silent Escape 13. Flashing Wings 13. Opening Fan (AB)
14. Returning Viper 14. Parting the Waves 14. Double Blades
15. Returning Thunder 15. Thundering Hammers 15. Clawing Panther 
16. The Serpent 16. Whirling Leaves (ABC) 16. Spear of Jade (ABC)
17. Attacking the Wall 17. 3 Winds Claw (ABCD)
18. 7 Swords 18. 3 Winds Fist (ABCD)
19. Chinese Cobra
20. The Phoenix

 

Jr. 2ND Brown Belt Jr. 1ST Brown Belt Jr. 1ST Black Belt
     

22 + 8 = 30  total = 158

24 + 9 = 33  total = 191

26 + 12 = 38  total = 229

Definitive Set 'A' (Short 4) TWO PERSON SET ('A' Side) TWO PERSON SET ('B' Side)
 1.  Hidden Fist  1.  Legions of Ming  1.  Chinese Pincers
 2.  Rocker  2.  Fish Hook  2.  Crossing Hooks
 3.  Circling the Sun (ABCD)  3.  The Sickle  3.  Turning the Flame (AB)
 4.  Leveling the Clouds  4.  The Dagger (AB)  4.  Stopping the Staff
 5.  Sleeves of China  5.  Mantis  5.  Twisting Vine
 6.  Monkey Elbow (AB)  6.  Whirling Mantis  6.  Hands of Jade
 7.  Striking Asp (AB C)  7.  Sticks of Satin (AB)  7.  Spinning Log
 8.  Shooting Star  8.  Diving Hawk  8.  Lever of Ming
 9.  Pushing the Circle (A BC)  9.  Advancing Hammers  9.  The Lion (AB)
10. Japanese Hands 10. Sweeping Arm Hook 10. Covering the Moon
11. Waterwheel "B" 11. Snapping Twig 11. Returning Fist (AB)
12. Rising Kick 12. Breaking the Yoke 12. Falling Blades
13. Crane Kick 13. Prayer of Death 13. Falling Hammers
14. Sweeping Serpent 14. Raising the Shield 14. Corkscrew (ABC)
15. Covering the Flame 15. Circling the Pagoda 15. The Whip
16. Chinese Junk 16. Passing Wind (ABC) 16. Winding Elbows (AB CD E)
17. Offer of Dust 17. Guiding the Staff 17. Twisting Serpent
18. Locking the Gate 18. Cyclone 18. Chopping the Log
19. Waterfall 19. Double Spear (ABC D) 19. Falling Tree (ABC)
20. Prance of the Tiger 20. Crossing Swords 20. The Python
21. The Rake 21. Whirling Thorn 21. Twisting Dragon
22. 3 Tongues of the Dragon 22. Slashing Cougar 22. Slicing Hands
23. Twisting Knee (ABC) 23. The Scorpion
24. Parting the Reeds 24. Chinese Thumbscrew (AB)
25. 4 Fists
26. Advancing Dragon
Back to Top

©1991-1999 by Al Tracy.  All rights reserved.  No portion may be reproduced without permission.

 

 

Home ] Instruction/Training ] No Hidden Fees ] Kenpo Jiu-Jitsu ] MMA/Shootfighting® ] Studio Locations ] Schedule ] News & Events ] Photo Gallery ] Martial Arts History ] [ Belt Requirements ] About Us ] FAQs ] Favorite Links ] Facebook ] MySpace ] YouTube ] Flickr ]

Questions or problems regarding this web site should be directed to webmaster@tracyskaratestudios.com.
Copyright © 2007 Tracy's Karate Studios. All rights reserved.
No portion may be reproduced without permission.
Last modified: 01/04/12