Techniques

Shorinji Kempo is a martial art which encompasses many different aspects. The physical techniques associated with the art can be expressed by the following terms. All of these will be found in a typical session.

Goho Techniques
Goho is the hard system of Shorinji Kempo. On the simplest level this means learning how to punch, kick and block. Perhaps in a more accurate description one learns that the term goho relates to techniques in which one is in contact with the aggressor for a relatively short amount of time. It is generally thought of as the opposite of juho (described below).
This is, however, misleading until we discover what is actually meant by hard system. The easiest description involves us saying that goho techniques are generally performed as a defence against a strike, with the counter attack also being of the same nature.
In such a case the attack is usually deflected with a block and a counter strike delivered. Most blocks in Shorinji Kempo are designed to deflect the attack in such a way so that the attacker loses balance. This allows time for an effective counter strike to be made to a vital (or weak) point on the body.

Juho Techniques
Again rather misleadingly juho techniques are associated with the softer side of Shorinji Kempo. However, juho can be characterised with an increase in the length of time in which you are in contact with the aggressor. Juho techniques usually start with a grab of some description.
The idea is then to either escape the grab, pin the opponent or throw them (also usually ends in a pin). Which ever the appropriate response, you will see similar principles throughout most of the syllabus, with maybe six paradigm techniques.
At advanced levels the distinction between goho and juho becomes blurred and one does not exist without the other. That is to say that elements of both goho and juho can be found in all techniques.

Randori
Randori is the name given to sparring, though the idea is much more than simply sparring. It literally means to catch the random; or rather, to bring a random situation under control. In Shorinji Kempo we do not simply ask you to spar, rather we perform a series of exercises that help build up the skills. For instance a beginner wouldn’t learn a lot if they were simply asked to spar a black belt.

Embu
Embu is the name given to a series of five or six choreographed sequences of Shorinji Kempo techniques, performed by two (or more) students. An embu will last between 1.5 and 2 minutes. Due to the pre-prescribed nature of the sequences, embu is often thought as the opposite of randori. Embu is unique to Shorinji Kempo and is the epitome of the art when performed well. A good embu should tell a story, be technically perfect, flow well and look convincing; they are often used for display purposes. Embu represents the students level in understanding the principle of Ken Zen Ichinyo. They are also a fantastic way to build a friendship and trust with your partner.

Seiho
Vital/weak/nerve points on the body can not only be used for self defence purposes, but also, if appropriate force is used in the right direction, for healing purposes. Seiho is analogous to shiatsu massage. It also contains exercises for joint relocation.

Kata
Many martial arts have set sequences of moves, called kata. Shorinji Kempo is no different. However you will not find any mysterious moves or moves that only the senior grades know what they are for. Every kata is straight forward and many have pair form versions, which you are unlikely to find elsewhere.

Source: UWE Shorinji Kempo Club