Christie Kenpo Karate and Integrated Fitness were founded by Lyle and Kris Christie in 1997. They are both senior black belts of Martial Arts pioneer Grand Master Rick Alemany. Under Alemany they were fortunate to learn not only Kenpo Karate but Jujitsu, Gracie Jiu Jitsu, Arnis, and Wing Chun. In addition, they are also students of martial arts and self defense pioneer Matt Thomas (founder of model mugging). Their educational background is in Nutrition, Film, and Psychology.