Curriculum: Gasan Ryu Kenpo

Required and suggested readings

In addition to the physical skills developed as a part of training, it is important to understand the background and philosophy behind the Martial Arts.  This background puts into better focus the mindset and direction that our training should be taking us, and it also allows us the opportunity to view the thoughts and paths that others have taken in their journey within the Martial Arts.

Below are the books that are required and/or suggested reading.  They each contain a valuable piece of the fabric of the Martial Arts.  The first group of books are required reading at each of the ranks listed.  The second group are suggested reading for later in your training.

 

White	Yellow	Orange	Purple	Blue
Chamberlain Studios of Self Defense Student Manual
Information on Kenpo, background history, terminology, school rules, principles of conduct etc	Stories from Joe Hyams of his experiences with some of his instructors over the years including Ed Parker (Kenpo) and Bruce Lee (JKD)	From the man that started Japanese Karate along the track of character development and the founder of Shotokan Karate	Anecdotes and exploits of the old Karate masters of Okinawa	A great reference for all students interested in groundwork and the tactical application of Jiu-Jitsu
Green	Brown III	Brown II	Brown I	Shodan
				Chamberlain Studios of Self Defense Elective Reading
Many of the sayings for "Grasshopper" in the TV series Kung Fu, were taken from this work.  It forms the foundation for Taoism, "the way of virtue and reason"	Great book on the philosophy of the Martial Arts	Frequently used in colleges as a text in Philosophy classes, this book gives insights into why we keep training!	This text covers the history, use and techniques of the traditional Okinawan weapon.  It includes the form Shushi-No-Kon-Sho which is a part of our curriculum

Suggested Reading:
 

Considered the greatest Military strategist.  This new translation offers the reader a clearer understanding of the Master's ideas.	By the founder of Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu, this book offers a great look at the Master's system.  Regarded as a leading figure in the Martial Arts.	An introduction to traditional Jiu-Jitsu by a skilled Master of the art.  Well diagrammed and laid out, easy to read and follow, a good resource for your training.	The definitive text by one of the most famous martial artists of all time.  His thinking and impact has been extensive.	Used by Harvard Business School as a text for today's world, this book retains it's meaning both in the Martial Arts and also in everyday life.
	"The Masters Text" Professor Nick Cerio $34.95 Direct from the website NickCeriosKenpo.com
A good book on the history and usage of this Okinawan weapon.  Includes the kata Kanegawa-No-Nichougama which is a part of our curriculum at brown belt.	Professor Cerio’s last published book before his death in 1998.  This book contains most of the katas, weapons and self defense techniques from his system, many of which are a part of Gasan  Ryu Kenpo.

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