Female in Black Workout Attire Kicking

About me.

I’m Jane,
the creator and founder of
Kempo Reference Guide!

Former corporate graphic designer. Current 5th degree black belt.
I traded my dresses and heels for Lululemon and Vivobarefoot,
and I couldn’t be happier.

Female in Black Office Attire

ONCE UPON A TIME

I was a senior graphic designer working for a large publishing company.

It was fun and exciting. I was able to work on multiple projects at once, so boredom was hard to find. Over the years, I created client ads, pitched and created internal and external marketing, and created projects for the editorial side.

After 15 years, and multiple ownership changes, it became less fun. Switching to freelance graphic design seemed like the answer, but I missed mentoring young designers and collaborating with others.

In 2023, after 20 years of designing and creating other peoples dreams, I decided it was time to focus on my own projects. It was time to combine my years of graphic design work with my passion for martial arts and fitness.

Female in Black Workout Attire With Arms Crossed
Female in Black Office Attire Kneeling
Female in Black Workout Attire Kneeling
Female in Black Office Attire With Arms Crossed

JUST LIKE THAT

I found a renewed purpose, helping students show up with confidence.

I started karate in 1992, but focusing on high school sports and moving away for college limited my growth. After years of at-home workouts and treadmill sessions, I decided to give martial arts another try. I was looking for a challenge and martial arts delivered.

I fell in love with martial arts as an adult. The classes were a great workout, and a lot of fun. Learning new techniques, and new ways to do old techniques, kept me engaged mentally and physically.

One of the main driving points for me to create the Kempo Reference Guide was to give students a resource they can use to get back on track and continue their journey. Over the years, I’ve seen too many people give up martial arts after taking time off. They take a break, they get behind, they can’t remember all of the techniques and they get down on themselves. They come to a couple classes and see everyone else further ahead than they are and they give up.

This guide is for every student, whether you want to get back in the dojo after a long layoff, or just want a reference when training at home between classes.

Get in Touch

At Kempo Reference Guide, we're here to support your martial arts journey.

If you have any questions or comments about our program, please submit your question here, or email us at kemporeferenceguide@gmail.com