Our son, Ian, has been taking lessons from Sensei Chuck Epperson since the age of 4. He is now almost 14. Our other son also took lessons since that age until he decided to dedicate full time to baseball. Chuck Epperson has made an indelible and profound impact on both of our sons' lives. Sensei Chuck is the real deal, and we have never met anyone like him. His dedication to his craft, and to his students is unparalleled. He is intensely determined to create the most prepared and self reliant martial arts student possible. Our sons have been able to defend themselves against bullies, without causing harm or ill feelings in the process. Their knowledge of martial arts, and the concept of deflecting negative energy rather than causing it, has earned our son tremendous respect amongst their peers. We credit Sensei Chuck for this wonderful character building trait in both of our sons. At Epperson Brothers, integrity reigns supreme. Sensei Chuck does not award belts without the student first proving that he or she has truly earned the right to advance a level. Many teachers do award belts much more easily and with less emphasis on student effort, because they can make more money doing so. Money has never been focal point at Epperson Brothers. Chuck truly cares about his students, and about preparing them properly in mastering the amazing skill of martial arts. You will not find a person like Sensei Chuck. He is old school, and he is a wonderful, caring, honest person, whom we have tremendous respect for. We are very grateful to have him as such a strong male role model in our boys lives, as this is very hard to come by these days. He is strong yet humble. He is truthful, and you always know where you stand with him. He always seems to have the same positive demeanor and if he's ever in a bad mood, you wouldn't know it. This is a wordy commentary, but when you meet Sensei Chuck, you will see why we sing his praises. I wish there were more people in the world like him. His wife, Nanette, is also a gem. I know that our boys will be fine adults, and better men, for having had Sensei Chuck Epperson in their lives, and we are beyond grateful for that. read more

I've been affiliated with Epperson Bros Kenpo Karate for over a decade through the Portland Kenpo Karate Dojo taught by Sensei Eric Stiverson, and I can honestly say this community has become family to me. I've attended Sensei Chuck's seminars for more than ten years, often joined by Sensei Bruce Epperson, Sensei Joe Sanchez, Sensei Jason Shoemaker, and many other high-ranking black belts who bring an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience each time they visit. Every seminar is a treat -- a rare opportunity to train directly under instructors who not only teach the art, but embody the spirit and philosophy of Kenpo. The lessons go far beyond memorizing techniques; they emphasize why movements work -- the reasoning behind angles, off-stepping, and counter-attacking from both the inside and outside of an opponent's centerline. Over the years, I've developed real understanding in thrust and snap kicks, vertical and thrust punches, knee checks, compounding motions, and deflection angles. Their sparring sessions are practical and dynamic, integrating real-world concepts like boxing combinations (jab, cross, uppercut) along with slips, bobs, and weaves. You don't just learn to fight -- you learn to think, adapt, and stay composed. Sensei Chuck's Kenpo Kali instruction adds another powerful layer, combining Filipino knife and stick fundamentals that enhance timing, flow, and precision. It's one of the most unique and valuable cross-training experiences I've ever had. Beyond the physical training, the philosophy taught here carries over into everyday life -- discipline, respect, awareness, and integrity. Every instructor and student I've met through this dojo is honorable, humble, and dedicated. After more than ten years, I can say with confidence: this is more than a martial arts school -- it's a lifelong family and a path of personal growth. read more

STUDENT TESTIMONIAL: Chuck Epperson is so incredibly talented. More than that he is a kind and wise human being. He actually cares deeply for his students and constantly leads them toward truth exercising not just their bodies but integrating their minds. This extends not just to the martial arts but to life. I carry with me his gentle reminder, "A black belt is a white belt that doesn't quit." I find comfort in that. It reminds me to persevere in all areas of my life. It is nothing short of amazing to witness him perform with so much precision and power. Even more rare and important he is able to impart that wisdom and technique to his students as the result of precise deep understandings giving gentle correction teaching patience and perseverance. He has spent a lifetime pursuing this knowledge and experience and is the best martial arts instructor and practitioner I've encountered. It is beautiful to see that acknowledged by such an exclusive membership induction. I believe everyone that has witnessed him teach will agree that he is worthy of this honor being among the very best. By Michael Abouzeid read more

This is a great dojo! A great place to learn self defense through the art of Kenpo Karate. Sensei Chuck Epperson is a great teacher. He doesn't just teach you basics and techniques, he makes sure all students understand what he is teaching, both how to physically perform it and how to verbally explain it. Helps to keep you in shaped, too! I've been going for more than five years, and have gone from White belt to third degree Brown belt, and now I feel confident in my abilities and being able to defend myself, and that's a valuable skill to possess in today's dangerous world. Come join today, new students, young and old alike, are always welcome! read more

This place changed my life. From the truly expert instruction to the individualized attention, No other martial arts school has come close. Sensei Epperson teaches every class, both group and private. For a genuine 9th degree Black belt to continue to be that dedicated to his art and his students speaks volumes. For realistic, common-sense training, where rank is not handed out just for showing up, this is the place to train. After 22 years, I still travel the 3 hour round trip to Chico. read more

Eppersons is an amazing dojo that teaches self defense, kick boxing , and practical skills to defend oneself. Sensei Chuck Epperson is the most passionate teacher that strives to get those most out of people . Not only is Sensei Chuck an encyclopedia of self defense but He truly cares and loves his students . Great place to train! read more