Kempo Arnis Federation (KAF) unites top-level instructors from across Europe and the world.
Jan Torborg, 2nd DAN Kempo Arnis, 3rd DAN Kyusho Jitsu and 6th DAN Goju-ryu master, head of KAF Germany, regularly returns to our Honbu Dojo in Novo mesto, where we actively contribute to the evolution of modern self-defense. His dedication, expertise, and experience strengthen KAF’s global network.
Kempo Arnis: A Strong Network of Knowledge and Commitment
At Kempo Arnis, we are committed to a high-quality and transparent teaching system across all our branches. That’s why our branch instructors—both in Slovenia and internationally—are experienced and highly trained. They understand the importance of staying involved in the continuous development of the KAF curriculum and regularly dedicate their free time to training and visiting our Honbu Dojo in Novo mesto. We are extremely proud of this dedication.
One of these outstanding instructors is Jan Torborg, a respected German martial arts master with over 35 years of experience in training and teaching various self-defense systems. He is the head instructor of Kempo Arnis Federation Germany (KAFG) and an important member of Karate-Club Seelze in Germany.
Jan began training in Kempo Arnis in 2016 under Shihan Borut Kincl, the founder of KAF. Since then, he has become one of the leading figures for Kempo Arnis in Germany. In 2022, he was inducted into the Kempo Arnis International Hall of Fame for his contributions. Jan is well-known for his teaching style—extremely clear and highly practical. His seminars are focused and effective: no unnecessary philosophy, just techniques that work in real-life situations. His approach is defined by the following values:
- Safety and mutual respect in every training session
- Teaching the fundamental mechanics of movement so techniques work even for physically smaller or weaker individuals
- A disciplined yet relaxed training environment
- The understanding that martial arts are not only about fighting, but also about personal growth and self-confidence
In April, Jan once again visited our Honbu Dojo in Novo mesto.
Jan, what brings you back to Novo mesto again and again?
“There’s a very special energy here. The Honbu Dojo in Novo mesto is more than just a training space – it’s a place of growth, respect, and genuine connection. Every time I return, I feel part of something meaningful. Training with Shihan Borut and the team helps me evolve not only as an instructor but also as a person. It recharges my motivation and deepens my understanding of Kempo Arnis.”
Why did you choose to make Kempo Arnis such a central part of your life?
“I’ve practiced martial arts for over three decades, but when I discovered Kempo Arnis in 2016, it just clicked. The system is structured yet adaptable, traditional yet modern. As a karateka, I realized after a few years that my self-defense skills were insufficient. I discovered Koryu Uchinadi by Hanshi Patrick McCarthy for myself and learned for many years two-person forms that cover many realistic self-defense scenarios. It was during this time that I first came into contact with vital points and have been studying Kyusho Jitsu since 2007. However, I always felt that there was a missing link that connected everything I had learned, until I met Borut Kincl in 2016. This meeting changed not only my martial arts but also my life. I found what I was looking for – a strong network of knowledge and commitment. But what really convinced me was the integrity of the people behind it – especially Shihan Borut. His vision and the community he’s built are something I wanted to be part of. Kempo Arnis gives me the tools to teach others in a practical, respectful, and empowering way. It’s not just a martial art – it’s a way of life.”
If you had to highlight two key strengths of Kempo Arnis, what would make it stand out compared to other martial arts?
“First, the real-world effectiveness. Every technique we teach is meant to work under pressure – it’s not about fancy moves, but real application. Kempo Arnis is the most comprehensive martial art I know. It includes realistic combat at all distances, with the most typical weapons, and always ensures the spirit of a true martial art with all of its virtues. Second, the supportive community. You’re never just a student or a rank – you’re part of a family. The values of respect, safety, and continuous learning are not just words here – they’re lived every day.”
Despite the demands of running his own branch and overseeing the KAFG, Jan still manages to make time for his personal training. Like the other candidates, he is currently preparing for the upcoming black belt examination, scheduled to take place in the 2025/26 season in Novo mesto, Slovenia.
