I have been partially paralyzed by a stroke, left side, can I still test and become a ranked Blackbelt?
We have put these questions together because they have the common denominator of a physical issue. Each case is different, because each individual is different and if we can see a way for a person to proceed in the Art and progress, we will work with them to the full extent of our abilities. That’s the beauty of getting to know you on video. Each of our students is considered on a personal and individual basis, exactly as it would be in the dojo. People confined to wheelchairs have received their Black Belts. In fact I was told that such a person now runs a school in the West L.A. location that Ed Parker’s dojo once occupied and is doing very well there. I don’t know what style he teaches. Getting your Black Belt involves much more than being able to do specific moves to a particular level of proficiency. Certainly, that’s the first thing that’s looked for but physical conditions and many other factors have to be taken into consideration so that we can make Kenpo work for you. Ed Parke
