Tempe Shao-Lin Kempo

Tempe Shao-Lin Kempo on W Baseline Rd

Tempe Shao-Lin Kempo is the Tempe branch of the American Schools of Shao-Lin Kempo, a long-running system that blends traditional Shaolin kung fu lineage with the structured American Kempo karate curriculum. The dojo is located at 27 W Baseline Rd in central Tempe, accessible from Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Ahwatukee, and the south Phoenix metro. Students get authentic kung fu material paired with the clear belt-track structure families look for.

Kids Martial Arts Programs

Kids classes are split into three age tiers so children train at a developmentally appropriate pace:
- Peewees (ages 3.5-6): motor-skill games, listening drills, and simple stance and hand basics
- Big Kids (ages 7-12): early forms, partner drills, and beginning sparring concepts
- Teens (ages 13+): faster pace with intermediate forms and contact-controlled work
- Curriculum drawing from Shaolin animal styles and Chinese hand techniques

What's Included

• Blend of Shaolin kung fu lineage and structured Kempo belt progression
• Philosophy of "winning without fighting" - confidence and de-escalation skills
• Discipline, social skills, and self-defense awareness in every class
• Chief Instructor Richard Arnold, 2nd Degree Black Belt (head instructor since 2013)
• Free trial classes for new students

Experience

The school weaves de-escalation and internal confidence into the physical readiness to defend oneself when needed, so children build judgment to avoid conflict alongside technique. The mix of authentic Shaolin material and a clear belt track suits families who want traditional depth plus a structured progression that keeps kids motivated.