Tracy’s Karate

I studied here for a few years under Joe Height. I love this place.
Some things to know:
1. Unless things have changed since I was here, Tracy’s teaches a semi-​formal style of martial arts consisting of slightly modernized kung-​fu and karate called Kenpo (meaning «law of the fist»). This form was also the first Eastern art taught to Westerners. The Godfather of this form in America is Ed Parker (if you want to look it up).
2. Kenpo is not sport fighting (like MMA or karate tournaments). Kenpo is not showy «ninja» stuff like Tae Kwon Do or Shaolin stuff you see on TV. It is very direct self-​defense. In other words, you will not be learning head kicks and back flips, you will be learning eye gouges, nut shots, and how to run.
So, if you want to teach your kids how to fight on the playground or you want to learn spin kicks for a hardcore moshpit, this form is not for you. This form is for you if you want to learn or want your kids to learn an effective way of not getting kidnapped, raped, or murdered.
3. Kenpo is disciplined and well rounded. You will learn situational techniques, striking, throwing, blocking, ground, and stunning. You will also learn when NOT to fight, which is almost always. It is very safe and fun for kids.
4. There are only a few forms of truly respected martial arts: Krav Maga, Wing Chun, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, etc. Kenpo is sort of like the godfather of effective martial arts and is respected at the top of this list.
You will learn under a personal instructor, but you are also able to go to group classes and special trainings. There is a simple belt ranking system which allows you to progress into more difficult techniques, but from day one, you are learning hard self-​defense.
Last thing I’ll mention. I knew a girl in college who was being stalked. She learned this form and never had to worry about it again. She later became an amateur kickboxer that could probably beat the crud out of me.
Be safe!

Kenpo is great for self-​defense to end a fight quickly and finally. So expect some bruises and sore muscles after a lesson or group session. Many of the group sessions are good for kids. I usually stick to the private lessons, but a weight room and the group sessions are available for the monthly cost. I like to get work out tips from the instructors, especially when I’m looking to target specific areas. Bill Boyd, as in Bill Boyd’s Tracy’s Karate, is a Kenpo Hall of Famer and really knows his stuff.