The Three Phase Concept

Kenpo techniques are tought with a three phase formula where the student is expected to learn the technique as written [ in stone of course :-) ], then go on to play with the possibilities. The Three Phases are, in order, the following:

Ideal Phase

In the Ideal Phase the student learns the technique "by the book". This means the attack is specified, the defense is applied and the attackers reaction is known.

What-If Phase

In the What-If Phase the student(s) experiment with different possible scenarios for the attack and attackers reactions.

Formulation Phase

With the Formulation Phase the student tears apart the technique, explores its principles and develops alternate, spontaneous, reactions all with the aid the equation formula.