Kenpo is a techniques based Martial Art built around "what-if" scenarios. It's a scaleable self defense system that intensifies as the situation escalates - so the moves, which range from simple to complex, can be used to peacefully disrupt a situation that's gotten out of hand to brutally and quickly ending an assault.
American Kenpo Karate utilizes all of our natural weapons: the hands, kicks, knees, and elbows - making it one of the most effective martial arts because it uses the entire body as a potential weapon to keep you safe. You may never face the real-world situations that American Kenpo Karate self-defense classes teach, but if you do, you'll be glad you know how to handle it.
American Kenpo Karate utilizes all of our natural weapons: the hands, kicks, knees, and elbows - making it one of the most effective martial arts because it uses the entire body as a potential weapon to keep you safe. You may never face the real-world situations that American Kenpo Karate self-defense classes teach, but if you do, you'll be glad you know how to handle it.
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It's what motivates us, and we believe it is what keeps our members engaged, focused and happy. Mark Arnott is a 5th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate and has been teaching karate in studios, public and private schools in the Pasadena/South Pasadena area since 1992. The excellent SPEF programs offered him the opportunity to teach after-school and summer programs in South Pasadena for elementary and middle-school students.
Arnott Kenpo Karate of Pasadena offers practical self-defense for men, women, teens and children, ages 4 and up. Our goal is to provide our members with classes that are challenging while maintaining a relatively safe environment. Each of the group classes is taught differently. The Mighty Tigers are always supervised as they are taught foundational basics.
We're happy you're here and want to prepare you to have the most positive experience with us possible. These first classes are where it all begins. This is where you learn your most fundamental and important skills. The basics are the foundation of the true martial artist. In fact, the hallmark of an expert Black Belt is more about the precision of his or her basic skills under pressure than the sheer number of techniques an individual memorizes.
Use these as a guideline for what you should be learning for the test. Kids must be approved to test. Adults may test when they feel ready, and if they're not sure, an instructor will advise you. We use technique cards to track our goals and progress. We keep the cards in the front Lobby. There is also space to the right of each technique that you can use to write notes to yourself.
This is a great way to give a gift to someone who'd like to start karate! Here are a few ways to get started. Choose an option, and you can pay securely through paypal. In the notes field, enter the students name, and print out a copy for the student to bring with them. Those new to the studio will have to sign our standard waiver before working out.
Reviews (22)
Josephine Barrientos
Aug 04, 2021
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I'm the type of person who is critical and has high expectations; however, I have nothing bad to say about this place. Mark Arnott is an exemptional person! He knows how to handle little kids. I can see from the classes that it was developed to train young kids through play. It is a delight watching my kid have fun but learn at the same time. It's a plus that this place is affordable and clean. I highly recommend this place!
Essien GagnonWelch
Aug 11, 2020
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Jennifer W.
Mar 08, 2019
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My 4 year old son has been taking karate at Arnott Kenpo for about 8 months now, in the Mighty Tigers class. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about the studio and the entire team. I am so fortunate that when we were searching for a studio we came across Arnott Kenpo, as the teachers are patient and kind with their instruction, and instill a sense of responsibility in pride in even the youngest of students. I highly recommend that anyone looking for a karate studio come to Arnott Kenpo, especially those with small children!
Maureen W.
May 22, 2017
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Wonderful place for Karate. My son is 10 and has been taking karate lessons at Arnott for 6 months. He loves it. I think it has helped increase his confidence and also hand eye coordination and just overall well being in mind and soul.
Mr. Arnott is great. So good to the kids and really instilling a sense of self awareness, positivity and confidence. All while learning martial arts. The studio is large and spacious and lots of places for parents to observe or relax while kids take classes. Lots of options for day and time for kids lessons.
I love that other young adults and students help lead
Mr. Arnott is great. So good to the kids and really instilling a sense of self awareness, positivity and confidence. All while learning martial arts. The studio is large and spacious and lots of places for parents to observe or relax while kids take classes. Lots of options for day and time for kids lessons.
I love that other young adults and students help lead
Lisa B.
Mar 11, 2017
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Anthony A.
Feb 01, 2017
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I learned about Arnott Kenpo at a fundraiser. I was delighted that they would donate lessons to a good cause. I bid on the lessons for my 6 year old son and thankfully won.
My son was excited about learning about Karate but very shy and the type of kid that doesn't like any type of physical aggression so I was a little concerned.
Our first meeting was with the owner, Mark. He is just such a kind and encouraging man that seems like he was made for working with kids.
He talked to my son directly and in a way that made my son feel at ease. My son was a bit overwhelmed at the classes
My son was excited about learning about Karate but very shy and the type of kid that doesn't like any type of physical aggression so I was a little concerned.
Our first meeting was with the owner, Mark. He is just such a kind and encouraging man that seems like he was made for working with kids.
He talked to my son directly and in a way that made my son feel at ease. My son was a bit overwhelmed at the classes
Jim L.
Dec 29, 2016
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I have been a student of Mr. Arnott's for nearly 1.5 years. I've waited to write this review because I feel that it's important to have as many facts as possible before putting my name to something like this. It is also most fair to the person/place being reviewed.
Having finished with that preamble, on to the review... I selected Arnott Kenpo Karate after considerable research into both the art of Kenpo as well as the various schools available. There is a special quality to this school that begins with Mr. Arnott, who has a deep understanding of Kenpo. He is also a gifted teacher
Having finished with that preamble, on to the review... I selected Arnott Kenpo Karate after considerable research into both the art of Kenpo as well as the various schools available. There is a special quality to this school that begins with Mr. Arnott, who has a deep understanding of Kenpo. He is also a gifted teacher
Shauna Smith
Sep 10, 2016
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Nav K.
May 05, 2016
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This is the best Karate place! Mark, the owner is lovely, we could not ask for a more nurturing, warm and friendly place. A great place to learn, with the best teachers. Just right for our daughter, who was reluctant try Karate at first but Mark, his team and community made her feel at home and she loves it and now does it 3 times a week!
Alex Chen
Jan 12, 2016
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American Kenpo Karate is the perfect mix of karate, kung fu, and aikido that prepares you for street fight scenarios. Arnott Kenpo Karate is a great place to learn karate from a head instructor who sincerely cares about the development of each student. I see students and instructors (kids and adults of all ages) learning and practicing karate with mutual respect. That's why they won the Best of Pasadena award 3 years in a row. Mr. Arnott sets a great example for all the students and instructors. He is one of the friendliest head instructors you will meet. Classes are small to medium sized, so everyone
Monique M.
Dec 11, 2015
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Cori M.
Nov 30, 2015
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This is a fantastic studio! The owner Mark really cares about the students and has set up an environment in which they absolutely thrive. My son has really found his passion at the dojo. I recommend the private lessons in addition to regular classes - that was a game changer for us. The improvement we've seen in our son's confidence, discipline and endurance since attending Arnott Kenpo Karate is undeniable. We love it.
Melyssa A.
Sep 12, 2015
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Arnott Kenpo Karate is a great place for kids to learn! They are taught the skills needed to progress in Kenpo, as well as life lessons to help them grow as people. They learn to set goals for themselves and take action to meet those goals. They learn about making a commitment and honoring that commitment. They learn respect for themselves and others. And they learn the value of working hard to achieve. This is the best program I could have chosen for my child. I highly recommend this program for anyone looking to learn Kenpo and the life lessons that go along with it.
Music F.
Aug 22, 2015
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After searching a number of karate studios, I decided on Arnott Kenpo Karate. I'm glad I did! Mr. Arnott has a great blend of discipline and knowledge, where he will push you do your best but also be supportive as you learn. I enjoy his way of teaching which provides guidance while learning some difficult techniques, yet will also give you a hard workout during your practice.
The studio is clean and spacious, and has nice amenities such as filtered water and a large changing area for both men and women. His classes can be large at times, however, he and other teachers manage to get around
The studio is clean and spacious, and has nice amenities such as filtered water and a large changing area for both men and women. His classes can be large at times, however, he and other teachers manage to get around
Doug Free
Jun 20, 2015
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I actually like everything about Arnott Kenpo Karate. I started at the old location on Fair Oaks Ave in late 2014. I thought that karate studio was just about perfect. The new location in Eagle Rock is even bigger and better! The instruction I receive there from Mr. Mark Arnott and his assistants is spot on. Every class we learn new techniques and insights into the vast disciple of karate. The experience is exciting and inspires one to want to learn more and advance in the ranks.
Mr. Arnott is constantly bringing in highly experienced Black Belt veterans who provide their unique perspective on
Mr. Arnott is constantly bringing in highly experienced Black Belt veterans who provide their unique perspective on
Annette M.
Apr 29, 2015
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Arnott Kenpo Karate has moved from Pasadena to Eagle Rock, but is the same amazing place. M. Arnott has created a wonderful space for children and adults alike to learn the art of Kenpo.
The old studio was very nice, but I happen to prefer the new studio to the old - as there is just as much space for students, and even more for those waiting on students! It is open and spacious with tons of light. Plenty of class choices to fit all schedules...
There is also $10 yoga on Saturday's and $5 Zumba!
While there is no parking lot, there is more than ample street parking. (Paid and unpaid
The old studio was very nice, but I happen to prefer the new studio to the old - as there is just as much space for students, and even more for those waiting on students! It is open and spacious with tons of light. Plenty of class choices to fit all schedules...
There is also $10 yoga on Saturday's and $5 Zumba!
While there is no parking lot, there is more than ample street parking. (Paid and unpaid
Doug F.
Apr 23, 2015
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Six months ago, I was on a search for a new sport/hobby. It seemed to me that karate would be a worthy endeavor . After searching several karate studios on the internet, I was drawn to Arnott Kenpo Karate. The look and style of the website just seemed right and I made a visit to the studio to find out more. The first person I met was Mr. Mark Arnott, a 5th degree Black belt and founder.
I liked this guy immediately!. He is very kind and patient; not at all pushy. You get a sense right away that he truly loves what he does and his karate studio exudes a very pleasant spirit of kindness and
I liked this guy immediately!. He is very kind and patient; not at all pushy. You get a sense right away that he truly loves what he does and his karate studio exudes a very pleasant spirit of kindness and
Edward B.
Apr 21, 2015
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Great school. I've been out of the Martial Arts scene for about 4 years. I was able to come here, get back in shape in about 3 months and earn 1st place in an open martial arts tournament!
So even though this is my school, I currently attend, and staff may read this. I will be completely honest.
Positives:
-Great People
-Great space
-I love how organized it is. I can easily see how I'm going to achieve my next belt.
-Prices are really affordable, esp for the amount of classes you can attend.
-The school has a bunch of classes that are included in the price. Ex: Real life fighting class
So even though this is my school, I currently attend, and staff may read this. I will be completely honest.
Positives:
-Great People
-Great space
-I love how organized it is. I can easily see how I'm going to achieve my next belt.
-Prices are really affordable, esp for the amount of classes you can attend.
-The school has a bunch of classes that are included in the price. Ex: Real life fighting class
Suzanne E.
Apr 20, 2015
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This is a fantastic dojo, and it's no surprise it was voted Pasadena's "Best Martial Arts Studio" 3 years in a row. Mark Arnott and his team offer excellent instruction, with a big focus on themes like respect, focus and courage that are important both on and off the mat. Our daughter has been coming here for over 2 years, which is much longer than she's stayed with any other sport (soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball etc. etc. etc.). She's stuck with it, I think, because the studio provides such a supportive atmosphere it feels like home. We miss the old Pasadena
Charles T.
Apr 17, 2015
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We thought karate would be a good activity for our daughter and Arnott Kenpo Karate has proved us correct, and then some. Mark Arnott and all of the instructors know how to be both nurturing and motivating (it can be a delicate balance). They've created a warm environment where students comfortably learn and feel proud of achievements earned. I like that all skill levels are on the mat as a group. Students teach and inspire each other (the best kind of peer pressure). Arnott Kenpo Karate has become a wonderful part of my daughter's life with benefits that will last a lifetime.
Truth C.
Mar 29, 2015
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American Kenpo Karate is the perfect blend of karate, kung fu, and aikido. I've taken martial arts at 5 studios in 4 different states. When I moved to LA, a legend in Kenpo Karate recommended that I check out Arnott Kenpo Karate. I'm glad I did. Every time I walk into this studio, the warmth of the people makes me feel like coming home.
All martial art studios are not created equal. The most important thing to consider is the head instructor. Mr. Arnott is one of the friendliest head instructors you will ever meet. He sets a great example of respect, humility, and focus for
All martial art studios are not created equal. The most important thing to consider is the head instructor. Mr. Arnott is one of the friendliest head instructors you will ever meet. He sets a great example of respect, humility, and focus for
Amy H.
Mar 04, 2015
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My 1st grader has been taking classes here for a few months and he really loves it. The new studio space in Eagle Rock is very nice. The owner is very thoughtful and empathetic. Students are held to high standards, but they are also supported in building the skills to live up to to those high expectations in an age appropriate way. I would definitely recommend Arnott Kenpo Karate to anyone looking for fun and supportive martial arts instruction for their child.
