Shorinji Kempo Peninsula

You should check it out. It’s a great place to be introduced to a non-​competitive martial art in a friendly atmosphere. Although my main dojo is the San Francisco branch of Shorinji Kempo, I often come here because I live in Foster City. A lot of practical self-​defense skills can be picked up here without having to smell someone’s armpit or having their crotch in your face like in the MMA schools that are currently popular. Nor do we demonstrate our prowess by attacking defenseless boards or cinder blocks. If you thrive on mind-​numbing repetitive drills, then Shorinji Kempo is probably not for you. We tend to attract professionals seeking spiritual, mental, and physical achievement that doesn’t require pounding their fellow man (or woman) into a bloody pulp.

I’ve been practicing Kempo since 2003 and I absolutely love it, as is evidenced by the fact that I continued to practice it after moving back to the Bay Area from San Diego (where I was introduced to Kempo). As a martial art that focuses on balance and natural body movement, it’s excellent for anyone and everyone, regardless of size, shape, or physical ability.
The Peninsula Dojo is headed by Karahashi Sensei, who is truly terrific as a teacher and just a generally great guy. The dojo is small, so you can get a lot of personal attention, regardless of what level you come in at. You can also come by and check out a practice prior to joining: no pressure! I’m really glad I found them.

After two months, I’m truly hooked for life. Sensei Karahashi is an excellent instructor and a pleasure to learn from. I have a little experience in other martial arts but I have found a good fit in the philosophies of Shorinji Kempo. Teaching for the love of the art and not for profit speaks volumes about the attitude and devotion of this organisation. It doesn’t matter what size, shape, age or sex you are, with a bit of effort, I’ve seen improvements in myself already.

(Disclaimer: I’m biased because my spouse is the branch master)
Shorinji Kempo is really a great martial art. They are not run for profit (anywhere, worldwide), and their practices are accommodating for all ages and fitness levels.
It is Japan’s most popular (most widely practiced) martial art. Shorinji Kempo is a self-​defense oriented MA, with emphasis on cooperation and mutual respect. It encourages discussion on the philosophy behind the principles, as well as individual persistence.
Techniques include the basic punches/​kicks/​blocks, but also include a focus on tumbling, grappling, and pair forms.