From 2000 to 2005, Josh Kalos was a student of Kenpo under the guidance of the American Kenpo Karate Academy (AKKA). In 2005, he transitioned to the American Institute of Kenpo (AIK) and has since continued his Kenpo Karate and the combat arts. Mr. Kalos possesses a natural aptitude for martial arts and demonstrates a rapid comprehension of the fundamental theories, concepts, and principles that underpin Kenpo.
 
With a decade of training experience, Mr. Kalos commenced his teaching career in 2010. His exceptional skills extended not only to his personal artistic endeavors but also to his role as a mentor to the numerous students who sought his guidance. From 2013 to 2016, he held the position of primary instructor for both the Junior and Senior Kenpo classes at his institution. In 2016, he was recognized with the AIK Instructor of the Year award for his contributions to his school. Notably, in 2017, he was further honored with the Black Belt of the Year award. 

In 2016, Mr. Kalos was appointed as a full-time Kenpo Karate instructor at BASIS of Tucson, a nationally recognized charter school. His role encompasses the teaching of Kenpo and martial arts principles to students within the school’s physical education curriculum.

Despite holding a fourth-degree Kenpo black belt and possessing a wealth of knowledge that he continues to utilize, Mr. Kalos has redirected his training away from the traditional art form toward a combat-focused approach. This encompasses the application of his acquired knowledge to various combat disciplines, including kickboxing, boxing, and MMA. He acknowledges that the American Institute of Kenpo has been instrumental in developing his skill set, incorporating the practical application that he values. He remains committed to augmenting his training with boxing, Muay Thai, and grappling fundamentals. These principles are then integrated into the core of his martial arts philosophy, and once implemented effectively, he then shares his knowledge with his students.

In 2020, alongside Mr. Rose, Mr. Kalos commenced coaching advanced sparring, with the intention of assisting students in effectively applying their fundamental principles in a tactical manner. While Mr. Pilch continues to actively participate in the advanced sparring classes, Mr. Kalos, along with Mr. Rose, assumes the responsibility of developing class plans and training regimens to enhance the students’ performance
 
Mr. Kalos collaborates with students of diverse skill levels in combat fundamentals and strategies within the advanced sparring classes he co-heads with Mr. Rose. His expertise and experience render him an invaluable and exceptionally demanding training partner and coach for individuals seeking a mutually beneficial training experience.

The American Institute of Kenpo is grateful for all the contributions Mr. Kalos makes to the organization.

~ Last Updated 3/7/2025