In 1984, Peter Honigmann started his journey in martial arts in Kenpo Karate under Grandmaster John McSweeney, a pioneer in reality-based self-defense. John served in multiple branches of the military, was one of Ed Parker's first black belts, introduced Kenpo Karate to Ireland, worked as a bodyguard for the Kennedy family, and opened a martial arts studio in Elmhurst, Illinois (which today is still teaching his style of Kenpo). Peter was drawn to John’s powerful style of teaching and streamlined version of Kenpo Karate, which focused on simple and effective self-defense. Peter trained in Kenpo for 12 years under John, John's student Tom Saviano, and Mr. Saviano's student Steve Rigitano.