Ed Parker (1931-1990)

Ed Parker

Ed Parker was one of America’s foremost Karate Pioneers. He was the undisputed “Father” of American Karate having opened the first Karate studio in 1954. His credits include many other firsts, such as the first…
 • to conduct a Karate class on a university campus.
 • faculty member to teach Karate on a university campus.
 • authentic Karate technical advisor for T.V. and movies in the U.S.
 • to publish a Rule Booklet specifically for Karate free-style competition.
 …plus many others.

He was a native of Honolulu, Hawaii, and a graduate of Kamehameha High School. He also graduated from Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah, where he obtained a B.S. degree in Sociology and Psychology.

As Ed Parker learned Karate in Hawaii, he realized the need for new innovations to combat modern day methods of fighting. To fulfill this need, he developed revolutionary concepts and theories that are practical — not classical. As a result, his innovative concepts and ideas have enhanced the Martial Arts in America.

Upon graduating from BYU, he moved to California in September of 1956 to establish his second school. Within two years, he was teaching many well-known entertainment personalities through the efforts of his very close friend, Terry Robinson.

— From Parker, E.K. Infinite Insights into Kenpo, Vol. 1, back cover (“About the Author”).