Shorinji Kempo is a Japanese budo martial art that combines self-defence techniques, mind training and community. The branch started in 1972 and was the first Shorinji Kempo club in Finland. It was founded by Sakata Fumiyasu Sensei, and today's instructors are Finnish. The head instructor is Kari Mäki-Kuutti, 6th dan, who began in 1978 and has visited Japan several times.
Training covers kicks, strikes, blocks, releases, footwork and stances, often practised in pairs. Hard goho and soft juho techniques are combined, and there are no competitions. It suits all ages and fitness levels, beginners learn the basics in an introductory course, and a belt grading system tracks progress. Beginners can usually try 1–3 sessions for free.
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