Shorinji Kempo may not be one of the better known martial arts to originate from Japan, but its philosophy in developing character and teaching self defence has many similarities to the various combat techniques.
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Established in 1947 and exported to Australia years later, Shorinji Kempo is gradually gaining popularity in Port Stephens through Steven Clarke, who has been learning the art for more than three decades.
"I was originally introduced to the martial art by a New Zealand friend and after attending a demonstration in Sydney during the Bicentenary year (1988) I decided to start up my own school," the 59-year-old father and grandfather from Salamander Bay said.
"We are a not-for-profit organisation, I teach without payment and because it provides with an avenue to be constantly learning, and our classes are open to all ages. We have mixed classes, usually there are more males than females, however women are more than welcome, and when we get the required numbers we run children's classes.
"We also allow the kids to join in with the adults at times, which provides them with an opportunity to improve in leaps and bounds."
Clarke said that Shorinji Kempo was a great way for someone to challenge themselves.
"It can be physically quite demanding at times, although we all practice to our own limitations. And mentally it is a way of growing your own discipline and self confidence. There can be a very technical side to Shorinji Kempo with blocks, attacks, pins, grabs and arm locks. They say that by the time you reach black belt you are ready to begin learning," he said.
Clarke added that he was keen to see the class grow again following the COVID-induced hiatus. In recent weeks four members have attained their first dan black belts and another, Troy Cormack, received his second dan belt.
The group trains every Thursday from 6.30pm-8.30pm and Saturday from 9am-11.30am at the Salamander Bay Social Welfare Centre on Foreshore Drive.
"It is a low cost martial art with a once off registration (no yearly fees) and then you only pay on a per class basis. Anyone is welcome to come and watch or have a go, wear comfortable clothing and your first class is free."
Anyone interested in Shorinji Kempo can call Clarke on 0421 845 306.
