This post aims to provide a general overview of the geographic distribution of Kajukenbo black belt holders. It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive or officially sanctioned list. Kajukenbo, with its various lineages and styles, lacks a centralized, publicly accessible database of black belt ranks. Therefore, this information is compiled from publicly available sources and may not be completely accurate or up-to-date.
The purpose here is to illustrate the global reach of Kajukenbo and give a general sense of where practitioners achieve high-level ranking. Specific dojo locations and the number of black belts within each are often kept private.
Understanding the Challenges of Mapping Kajukenbo Black Belts
Accurately mapping Kajukenbo black belts presents several significant hurdles:
- Multiple Lineages: Kajukenbo has diverse lineages, each with its own ranking system and standards. A black belt in one lineage might not be directly comparable to a black belt in another.
- Private Information: Most dojos don't publicly share their student rosters, including the names and ranks of their black belts, for privacy reasons.
- Constant Change: The number of black belts changes constantly as individuals progress through their training.
Geographic Distribution: A General Impression
While a precise map is impossible to create, we can make some general observations based on available information:
- Hawaii: As the birthplace of Kajukenbo, Hawaii naturally boasts a significant number of black belt holders. Many original schools and lineages remain active there.
- United States Mainland: Kajukenbo has spread significantly across the continental US, with notable concentrations in California, Nevada, Texas, and other states with large martial arts communities.
- Philippines: Given the Filipino martial arts influences within Kajukenbo, the Philippines also holds a considerable number of practitioners, though publicly available data on black belt numbers is limited.
- International Presence: Kajukenbo's influence extends beyond the US and the Philippines, with schools and practitioners found in various countries around the world, including Canada, parts of Europe, and Asia.
Note: The density of black belt holders within these regions is highly variable, depending on the specific location, the age of the Kajukenbo school, and its teaching methods.
Finding Kajukenbo Schools Near You
If you're interested in learning Kajukenbo, the best way to find a school in your area is through online searches using keywords like "Kajukenbo [your city/state]," "Kajukenbo [your country]," or by searching for specific lineages of Kajukenbo (e.g., "Kajukenbo Yaw-Yan"). Many dojos maintain websites or social media pages with contact information.
It's crucial to research different schools to find one that aligns with your learning style and goals.
Conclusion
This overview provides a general understanding of the geographic spread of Kajukenbo black belts, highlighting the challenges in compiling precise data. While a comprehensive map remains elusive due to the decentralized nature of Kajukenbo and privacy concerns, this information offers a valuable starting point for those interested in the art's global reach and potential training opportunities. Remember to always verify information independently and contact dojos directly for accurate and updated information.
