Chris Tanaka

6th Degree Black Belt

Professor of the Arts

Sher Khan Karate

Professor Chris Tanaka has made a lasting contribution to the American Institute of Kenpo through his innovative Tanaka 24 Count — a dynamic and versatile weapons pattern that has become a cornerstone of AIK’s curriculum.

This highly effective sequence can be seamlessly adapted to multiple weapons, including knives and escrima sticks. It is now an integral part of the entry-level weapons forms taught to all AIK black belts, giving students a powerful foundation in practical weapons defense and offense.

The American Institute of Kenpo is deeply grateful to Professor Tanaka for generously sharing this dynamic 24-count weapon strike delivery pattern with our students and instructors. His contribution has enriched our weapons training and continues to benefit everyone in the AIK family.

~ Last Updated 5/21/2026