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Mr. Elwood's journey through the martial arts world is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Los Angeles to his establishment of Street Smart Martial Art and now American Martial Arts Life, his dedication to his craft is evident.

​His roots in American Kenpo Karate, fostered by esteemed mentors like Grand Master Dave Hebler and Senior Grand Master Ed Parker, laid the groundwork for his incredible martial arts journey.   Achieving his black belt at Ed Parker's Original Kenpo Karate Studio marked a turning point, setting him on a path spanning over four decades of immersive learning across various martial arts styles.

​The pinnacle of his journey, attaining the esteemed rank of tenth-degree "Grand Master", speaks volumes about his expertise and the profound respect he commands within the martial arts community. But beyond accolades, Mr. Elwood's commitment to preserving and evolving American Kenpo is commendable.e

​His dedication to passing on knowledge and values aligns with the teachings that shaped him in his early years in California. His latest endeavor, "American Martial Arts Life Kenpo", underscores his continuing evolution. By incorporating modern fighting styles and focusing on techniques tailored for contemporary street challenges, such as street-controlled, concealed weapons training, Mr. Elwood demonstrates an unwavering commitment to innovation while honoring the core essence of martial arts. His journey stands as a testament to his passion, dedication, and profound love for the martial arts—an ongoing quest to both preserve tradition and adapt to the demands of the present day and future.