Kajukenbo is a martial art that was developed in the 1940s in Hawaii. The name “Kajukenbo” is a combination of the styles that influenced its creation: “Karate” (KA), “Judo/Jujitsu” (JU), “Kenpo” (KEN), and “Chinese Boxing” (BO). A number of Kajukenbo practitioners such a Chuck Liddell & Sage Northcutt have brought Kaju to prominence within the UFC, and MMA at whole.
The art was developed as a response to the increasing violence in the streets of Hawaii at the time. Five martial artists from various backgrounds came together to create a practical and effective self-defence system that would work in real-life situations. These martial artists were Sijo Adriano Emperado, Peter Choo, Frank Ordonez, Joe Holck, and George Chang.
Kajukenbo incorporates techniques from striking arts like Kenpo and Karate, as well as grappling and throwing techniques from Judo and Jujitsu. It emphasises practical self-defence techniques, as well as physical fitness and mental discipline.
Kajukenbo has since spread beyond Hawaii and has gained popularity worldwide. It is known for its practicality and effectiveness in real-life self-defence situations. The art continues to evolve as practitioners incorporate techniques and strategies from other martial arts disciplines.
The syllabus of Kajukenbo differs from school to school however it typically includes the following elements:
1. Basic stances and footwork
2. Strikes and punches
3. Blocks and counters
4. Kicks and knee strikes
5. Joint locks and grappling techniques
6. Forms (katas)
7. Self-defense techniques
8. Sparring drills
9. Weapons training (optional)
10. Conditioning exercises for strength, flexibility, and endurance
Students progress through the syllabus by mastering each technique and demonstrating proficiency in their application. Gradings are typically held to assess students’ progress and award them with different coloured belts indicating their level of skill.
Here at FightLab we belong to the World Wide Kajukenbo Federation headed by Senior Grand Master Hemenes. Sr Grand Master Hemenes is a 9th degree black belt in Kajukenbo under Great Grandmaster Charles Gaylord. SGM Hemenes ran Hemenes Kajukenbo in San Leandro for 37 years with over 400 students under him, he has 100’s of black belts under him that went on to became world champion black belts in fighting and forms.