Karri Barnes lives in Ohio and currently holds the rank of 1st Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo, a rank which she attained in April of 2025.
Karrie is a mother of two and discovered American Kenpo in September 2019 while homeschooling her children. She was looking for a physical fitness activity for their curriculum. She signed up for herself in January 2020. Not only was she fascinated by the science and mechanics behind American Kenpo, but it was also pivotal in her health and fitness journey. She currently has a small group of women she trains with weekly. She has also participated in two tournaments, placing 2nd in weapons and 3rd in kata in her divisions.
Karri is currently training at Seabrook Martial Arts Academy and is a member of Phasic Kombatives Kenpo Alliance. Her journey to Black Belt has led to so many amazing opportunities and has connected her with some of the most amazing people she’s ever met. The knowledge and insight Karri received from each class and seminar are invaluable. She hopes to one day be able to travel the world and connect with other female instructors and to teach and train with other women in American Kenpo.
In addition to her martial arts training, Karri enjoys firearms training and sports shooting. She also plans to obtain her NRA Instructor’s certification in 2025. Karri’s goal is to have a program focused on women’s self-defense and firearms training. Her aspiration is to provide a space for mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends to train and grow together. Karri wants to propel the next generation of women in American Kenpo forward.