Shorinji Kempo Downtown New York

I’m as new as it comes to martial arts, and when I decided to start practicing I had no idea where to start. There are so many different forms, styles, and practices that it becomes a bit overwhelming. After many intense googling sessions I knew I wanted to try either Kempo or Aikido, but honestly I had no idea why. It just seemed to be the two styles I liked after watching many videos and reading reviews on both.
So I started to visit both Aikido and Kempo «dojos» (new word I learned in my «googling»), and let me tell you it is SUPER intimidating. Some dojos were extremely intense and scared the life out of me, and others were overly attentive made me feel like I was joining a cult. The last place I visited was Shorinji Kempo, they make you sit and watch a class on your first visit, no participation necessary. When I walked in everyone there seemed to be a blackbelt already, which definitely made me hesitant. I thought, «Oh great, this is going to be fun!» (sarcastically). But I liked what I saw during the class, any hesitation or intimidation I had was erased as soon as I spoke with the sensei and a couple of members. So I was definitely willing to come back and try to participate in a class of my own… Long story short, I have been practicing for a little over two months now and I have learned so much. I owe it all to the instructors as well as all the other members no matter what level they are at. Everyone is effortlessly willing to help which makes learning a lot of fun.
My recommendation if you’re thinking about taking up some type of marital arts is visit the dojos, and DEFINITELY come visit Shorinji Kempo Downtown. I’ll most likely be there in my white belt (proudly), but not for too long I have my test for my next belt coming up… OH YEA!

After a life long search for a true martial art I discovered Shorinji Kempo while living in Japan. A strong combination of philosophy and technique Shorinji Kempo will improve your physical fitness, increase your spiritual awareness, and give you an effective set of self-​defense techniques. Our techniques are comprised of kicks/​punches/​reverse joint take downs as well as blocks and evasive methods. The downtown dojo is extremely fortunate to have an experienced and dedicated teacher from Japan. Unlike the mindless exercises you may do in a gym, this martial art is mentally engaging and simultaneously physically demanding. It can be adapted for anyone’s physical abilities from older children to older adults. Give it a try!

3+ years ago I started looking into various martial arts schools in New York City. I did not have prior experience in any particular style, and I was more drawn to the philosophy of martial arts more than anything else. I had a list of schools to check out, and this dojo was the first one that I observed. What really appeals to me about Shorinji Kempo is its variety of physical techniques, complemented by Eastern philosophical studies. The curriculum is laid out in an organized way with increasing difficulty, so that one is aware of the set of techniques in his/​her level.
I feel fortunate that I continue to have a positive and inspiring experience studying with this dojo. We are to treat each other with respect, regardless of our level of experience or physical differences. Not only can I learn from our talented branch master, Ohashi Sensei, I also have the chance to practice with new and experienced classmates. This means that my role in the class can be quite dynamic depending on who I’m practicing with.
If you’re looking for an experience that’s deeply spiritual, uncluttered and different from «commercialized» martial arts, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Shorinji Kempo.

I’ve practiced Shorinji Kempo for over 15 years. It has a great mix of hard (kicks, punches, blocks, etc) and soft (throws, releases, locks, etc) techniques as well as a deep philosophical study which includes meditation and a form of massage therapy. It works well for all body types and ages, which was appealing from the start. There is always something new and deeper to learn, especially with the variety of students in class.
This dojo is very lucky to have an instructor from Japan who has studied for many years, alongside instructors from Japan and the U.S. My training has been invaluable for my health and life, and brought with it great friends, an extra bonus.

My health has been improved by this practice :) also it will help you in your daily life physically and mentally. It makes your mind clear and everybody can do it .
You can contact them to just watch the class or trial free in first time.