“Hundreds of different styles and specialties of the martial arts exist, but they were segregated into relatively small groups of techniques until I formed Tai Chuan Do.
I took the best techniques from each style and incorporated them into one style along with philosophical teachings dating back to the late 1500s.”
Grand Master Ken Champ
8th Degree Black Belt
Styles of Origin:
Grand Master Kenneth L. Champ was born in Detroit Michigan and entered into the United States Army in 1961. He was introduced to the martial arts while stationed in Korea. Upon honorable discharge, Master Champ settled in St. Louis. He began martial arts training under Sensei Robert Yarnall at the Shorin-Ryu School of Karate. Sensei Yarnall was a United States Champion tournament fighter. Sensei Yarnall’s workouts were long and intense. After moving to Fort Myers, Florida, Grand Master Champ cross-trained with other martial artists. He taught self-defense and karate at the Y.M.C.A. He also taught privately to professional individuals. Master Champ began a search for a new sensei and he met Korean martial artist Jack Choe; a 5th degree black belt. The style was “A” Kido. This began a whole new chapter in his martial arts training. “A” Kido is a well rounded style. It consists of joint manipulation, pressure points, kata, and sparring. It is sanctioned by the Ki Do Association of Korea. The Ki Do, backed by the Korean government, leads direction and control to Korea’s martial arts activity. The Ki Do was formed in 1963 by masters of 31 martial arts systems to unify the ranking and certification of the Korean martial arts. He was pleased to locate a sensei with such credentials. Master Champ owned and operated two martial arts schools and taught at Master Choe’s school. This was a full time job and the schools were located in Labelle Florida, Fort Myers Florida and Port Charlotte Florida. There were various demonstrations and law enforcement personnel training. After much meditation and thought, Master Champ decided to form his own style. A style that would include and combine all of the many years of study. September 30, 1977 Tai Chuan Do was formed. The style has produced many champions and continues to grow.