<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation:  Forms and Sets > Form 4 > Frequently Asked Questions > How does Form Four fit into the American Kenpo system?

Form Four is a critical element in the design of American Kenpo. Starting from a larger perspective and narrowing, Form Four is a part of the Basics division of the art - which is divided into three (3) major divisions: Basics, Freestyle, and Self-Defense. To be slightly more specific the forms are the Moving Basics section within the Basics Division. All forms and sets fit into this section. The forms are primarily the study of the rules and principles of motion, where the sets are a more concentrated study of specific and isolated topics.

 

From the perspective of just the form section, Form Four is a progressive study of specific themes and principles expressed via a specific series of maneuvers. These maneuvers are called self-defense techniques and isolation maneuver sequences. This progressive study started with Short Form One and advanced in both complexity and sophistication to culminate in Form Four. Although, this progression continues to advance in future forms, Form Four is considered an advanced study of a complex topic - in-flight major attacks (a.k.a. live attacks).

 

Along with its advanced theme of in-flight attacks, it also has a secondary theme; a theme of advanced motion. In this case, intersecting circular motions (aka figure 8 pattern). And, also a stance theme that fits within the pattern of the form progression. In this case the natural stance. Furthermore, it also has many maneuvers and timings that are also considered advanced in nature.