Introduction
Shorinji Kempo, founded by Doshin So, is a martial art built upon both philosophical depth and practical self-defense. While its foundation lies in self-improvement, harmony, and respect, the system also includes theoretical knowledge of vital points (kyusho) — among them, the groin area — which can be used in extreme self-defense situations.
Theoretical Framework
In Shorinji Kempo, understanding vulnerable areas serves two purposes: first, to help the practitioner defend and protect themselves; second, to develop judgment and self-control before using any technique that could cause serious harm.
Doshin So emphasized that control and the avoidance of unnecessary violence always come first.
Technical Applications
Within goho (striking techniques), several movements are directed toward the lower body and groin region. Examples of such theoretical techniques include:
• Kin geri — an upward front kick targeting the lower body, primarily as a means of escape.
• Hiza geri (knee strike) — a close-range technique useful in situations of grabbing or clinching.
These strikes are not meant to inflict long-term injury but rather to create space and time to disengage safely.
Training Practice
In dojos worldwide, contact to the groin area is strictly prohibited during training or sparring. Practitioners instead focus on:
• controlled distance and substitute target points (e.g., lower abdomen),
• proper balance and body control to prevent injury,
• precision in timing and movement rather than raw power.
Students learn the correct mechanics of the strike — but, more importantly, when not to use it.
Ethical and Legal Dimensions
Using groin strikes carries serious ethical and legal implications. Shorinji Kempo encourages practitioners to act only in genuine self-defense and to avoid excessive force. In many countries, intentional injury to this region could have legal consequences, which is why instructors emphasize proportional response and lawful defense.
Conclusion
Groin strikes exist within Shorinji Kempo’s theoretical arsenal as a last-resort tool of self-defense. In practice, however, the focus remains on control, restraint, and mutual safety. This knowledge must be treated with responsibility, in harmony with Doshin So’s philosophy and with awareness of its ethical and legal weight.
