Joining with Previous Martial Arts Experience
We welcome students from every background: no experience, experience in other martial arts, and experience in other Kenpo lineages. Here’s how rank placement works at Kokoro Martial Arts.
The short version:
- Most students start at White Belt, regardless of prior rank.
- Former AKKI members and current Paul Mills Legacy students can have their rank reviewed.
- We have no minimum time between belts, so prior experience often means faster progress.
Why Everyone Starts at the Same Foundation
Every martial art, and every school, has its own methods, mechanics, and curriculum. In Paul Mills Legacy Kenpo, the way we teach basics is the foundation for everything that follows. Starting everyone at White Belt makes sure every student builds on the same base.
That isn’t a judgment on your previous training. Your experience will almost certainly help you move along faster. We just want to make sure you can perform our methods and basics with precision before advancing.
If You’ve Trained in American Kenpo Before
Paul Mills Legacy Kenpo, formerly the American Kenpo Karate International (AKKI), differs from other Kenpo lineages in meaningful ways. Mr. Paul Mills introduced specific methods of moving, executing techniques, and organizing the curriculum. Students coming from other Kenpo lineages will need to revisit some basics and adjust how they execute certain techniques, so they also begin at White Belt.
Former AKKI members and current Paul Mills Legacy students are the exception. Your rank and progress can be reviewed under association guidelines, and we’ll work with you to find the right place to start.
Kenpo Orphans
Did your instructor retire or move away? Did you move and lose access to a Kenpo or Paul Mills Legacy school? You’re exactly who our online program was built for. Many students in your situation find it’s the way back to training they thought they’d lost.
For Black Belts
We deeply respect the dedication and years of work it takes to earn a Black Belt in any art, and especially in American Kenpo. That achievement will always be honored here.
Because the Paul Mills approach differs in how movement, execution, and curriculum fit together, even Black Belts begin at the start of our program. Some of those foundational differences are distinct enough that revisiting the basics makes for a far smoother transition. Once they’re in place, your existing skill and muscle memory usually let you pick up techniques and advanced concepts much faster than a beginner. We’re also glad to talk with you individually about your rank and how you’d like to take part in classes.
How Fast Can I Advance?
There are no minimum time requirements between belts at Kokoro Martial Arts. Advancement depends entirely on how well you learn, process, and perform the material to the required standard, not on time served.
If you can absorb the material, apply it correctly, and demonstrate it consistently, you’ll move forward at your own pace. That’s true for every student, whether brand new or highly experienced.
Ready to Train?
If you’re ready to train, we’re ready to teach you as much as you can take in.