Thurston Shao-Lin Kempo is located in the beautiful Thurston neighborhood of Springfield. Our Chief Instructors Mike and Maria Zimmerman have been teaching martial arts for over 13 years and have been running Thurston Shao-Lin Kempo for over 10 years. Our Headmaster
Headmaster Robert Pearlswig started his studies with Karate in the Martial Arts in the early 1960’s. He started teaching Kempo on a part time basis in 1973. By 1976 he owned his first Dojo. By 1979 he was on the Board of Directors under Grandmaster Fred Villari. In 1982 he became the West Coast Operations Manager and developed more than 60 schools under him. When the company disbanded in 1991 for business reasons “Master Pearl” continued his studies and teaching. Believing that there is a place for quality training and excellent teaching methods Master Pearl has developed a training method that works for anyone. Graduates of his teaching program are at work today throughout the United States. Achieving 8th Degree Master in February 1995, he continues to train and teach today. Our System
Shao-Lin Kempo or Kung-Fu, as referred to by the Western Chinese, are one and the same. Shao-Lin Kempo has no weak links in its style—it is a full and complete combat system. The Shao-Lin Kempo movements were derived from the five original animal forms: the DRAGON, the SNAKE, the TIGER, the LEOPARD, and the CRANE. The fundamentals of Shao-Lin Kempo teach restraint when provoked and defense when attacked. Rarely will you find a true student of this art involved in a fight or brawl, simply because he or she has the confidence of knowing they’ll be the ultimate victor; they will be able to walk away from most confrontations without the loss of self-respect. Shao-Lin Kempo has a special approach to teaching martial arts. It begins with basic karate moves, linear in design. Later, the student is introduced to kempo moves, circular attacks, (and) aggressive control of the opponent. Finally, the student is taught the finer points of Shao-Lin Kung Fu moves, the secret of Chi, a power of motion and the power over balance. The combat philosophy includes punching, kicking, grappling, trapping, and locking. It includes all aspects of the fight, thereby training the student for any situation a confrontation might introduce. Bullies never stay with this art, for the teachings of discipline are enough to discourage them. They would rather buy a weapon than develop one. All of our classes, group or private, are taught by highly qualified Black Belt instructors, whose training and ability are constantly being upgraded by Master instructors. Kempo for Adults
Today’s hectic world makes it difficult to take time for yourself. You hear repeatedly how you are supposed to eat right and exercise properly. Then you are inundated with advertising for fast foods and labor saving devices. It’s enough to make you scream! Fortunately, there is an answer that has stood the test of time. For over 100 generations, men and women have found the answers to their questions hidden in plain sight: the Martial Arts. At American Schools of Shao-Lin Kempo, we will show you how to increase your energy, confidence, and your defense skills. Many people believe they need to prepare in some way before they begin. Our Program is designed to give you the tools and encouragement to aid you on your quest, regardless of skill level or athletic ability. Whether you are seeking better fitness, stress reduction, flexibility, defense skills for work or leisure, the Highly Qualified Instructors will patiently set out the steps that have been developed over the generations. While the rest of the world chases the current fad, American Schools of Shao-Lin Kempo has maintained a discipline of teaching that transcends the fads. Our methods are based on the idea that simple movements practiced become foundations. Foundations well established become structures. Structures that are completed will support families for generations. We’re open 6 days a week to enable you to work out with us even if you have an incredibly busy schedule. You can learn new skills with as little as 30 minutes a week. The Martial Arts is acquired minutes at a time, which become hours, days, weeks, months, years and lifetimes. Our approach is consistent. Our Dojo’s (Training Halls) are clean. Our Instructors are knowledgeable and patient. Our students come from all walks of life that come together to grow. That’s why we say, come try it, and you’ll say, "American Schools of Shao-Lin Kempo is Simply the BestTM”
Kempo Kids
Using the original purpose of the Arts (health benefits) and combining it with more than 13,000 children that have trained here with us, we have developed a Program for your child that teaches them how to become their absolute best. Peewees
At American Schools of Shao-Lin Kempo, we begin with teaching the 3 ½ - 6 year olds how to:
Develop personal discipline
Follow directions. Get along with other kids and teachers. Spot danger and effectively deal with it. Develop a sense of greatness from within. They look forward to coming and having FUN! Big Kids
In the 7-12 group they learn swiftly and are capable of precise and exacting movements. We introduce the concept of winning without fighting and help them prepare for the teenage years. The shy ones develop confidence and become more outgoing. The ones that have weight or health issues are taught methods of development that can often times be an alternative solution for many problems. We encourage good conduct and proper social interactions. Teens
Our teens excel. They develop the ability to work thru difficult situations while gaining physical and emotional strength. The confidence they gain will give them an edge when they apply for that job or entrance to college. It’s an internal confidence that all the children get when they learn how to move precisely and dynamically. These skills help them make the right choices. Parents think we’re great, kids LOVE us.
