Welcome to the American Institute of Kenpo

Are you searching for a top-notch Kenpo martial arts school? Look no further than the American Institute of Kenpo! Our team of experienced instructors provides exceptional Kenpo training, one of the most effective and practical martial arts styles. Whether you aim to enhance your self-defense skills, get fit, or simply have fun, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s why you should choose the American Institute of Kenpo

Expert Instructors: Our instructors are certified by the American Institute of Kenpo and have years of experience teaching Kenpo to students of all ages and skill levels.

Comprehensive Curriculum: We offer a well-rounded curriculum that covers all aspects of Kenpo, including the basics, forms, sparring, and self-defense.

State-of-the-Art Facility: Our modern facility boasts a spacious training area, top-notch equipment, and more.

Flexible Scheduling: We offer classes at convenient times throughout the week, so you can easily fit training into your busy schedule.

Family-Friendly Environment: Our school is a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and encouragement.

Are you ready to kickstart your martial arts journey and discover how our programs can transform your life?

Mission Statement

The American Institute of Kenpo is an organization dedicated to the cultivation of character, confidence, physical well-being, and internal peace. We strive to achieve this noble objective through the medium of the art of self-defense known as Kenpo Karate.

We are dedicated to preserving the integrity and legacy of Kenpo Karate within the Rough N’ Tumble lineage of Sigung Stephen LaBounty. We also adhere to the analytical analysis and practical application principles of the exceptional Tactical Combat lineage of Mike Winkeljohn, and the non-destructive counterbalances of the Paxtial Arts Lineage of Ed Parker (Jr.). Our objective is to provide our students with comprehensive access to all relevant traditional, combative, competitive, and de-escalation-based skills, empowering them to respond effectively to any given circumstance.

We encourage each student to embark on a journey of self-discovery as they internalize the concepts, theories, and principles of Kenpo Karate as we impart them at the American Institute of Kenpo.

American Institute of Kenpo value shield artwork and attack category grouping.

A System Is The Solution

The American Institute of Kenpo offers a comprehensive curriculum in modern self-defense and physical fitness. Our programs cater to martial arts students of all ages and fitness levels, fostering coordination, strength, and flexibility.

The institute’s advanced Kenpo curriculum provides a structured and attainable path for students to attain the rank of Black Belt.

L.A.W.S. Of The Scholar & Warrior

To ensure a comprehensive approach to self-defense, the American Institute of Kenpo not only focuses on the physical aspects of martial arts but also emphasizes the ethical and moral principles that guide responsible skill development. Drawing inspiration from the L.A.W.S. of the Scholar and Warrior, a code derived from Bushido, developed by Lee A. W. Sprague, a contributing mentor, our professional instructing staff diligently works to instill values such as truth, bravery, courtesy, compassion, sincerity, discernment, and loyalty.

Our students are encouraged to embody these values and uphold the principles of honor in all aspects of their lives, striving to be protectors until the very end.

Testimonials

~ Mike Winkeljohn

Mr. Pilch has become an incredible practitioner in Kenpo and Kickboxing. He is a great teacher and motivator. \ His students are very talented and have attained a high level of competence. His kickboxing team is the most talented in Arizona. More importantly Mr. Pilch is a family man and role model who adheres to traditional values. Mr. Pilch has contributed and given back to the Kenpo system, his students and instructors.

~ Claudia Herman De Oliver

Perfect balance of strength development - mind, body, and heart. Very pleased as a parent. My daughter looks forward to every class and speaks highly of all of her instructors.

~Budi Bahureksa

There's an old Chinese Proverb that goes like this:

"A good teacher is better than a thousand books."

I think we're fortunate to have Mr. Andrew Pilch as our chief instructor, who embodies the old martial arts philosophy of quiet honor, support, and discipleships. Mr. Pilch is interested in and truly supports the growth and martial arts interest of his students. He's masterful and very experienced in various styles of martial arts, especially American Kenpo.

~ Monica Chavez

American Institute of Kenpo has been a part of my life since 1998, when Andrew Pilch began to instruct my two small children. Two turned into five, and soon he was instructing my husband and I as well. Although AIK officially launched in 2005, it was that same solid foundation that guided me through eleven years of teaching Kenpo at BASIS Oro Valley. The confidence, skills, and lifelong friendships gained from being associated with AIK, is something I will always value, and highly recommend.

~ Oleg Cohen

My son Sam and I joined AIK recently when we moved from Massachusetts to Tucson. We immediately liked the dojo and the staff. Everyone is super supportive and helpful. I love Mr. Pilch’s teaching style and never leave a class without learning something new and valuable. He is great with kids and makes it a lot of fun. I have been studying martial arts for almost 25 years. I experienced different styles and different schools both in the US and abroad. AIK really stands out! Both Mr. Pilch and his instructors are highly dedicated, patient, and knowledgeable. I have personally experienced great benefits of studying American Kenpo and I truly believe it is incredibly beneficial for kids to develop self-discipline, respect, and crucial self-defense skills. Definitely recommend AIK to both kids and adults!