When I was researching for my latest book, 'American Kenpo Mastery: A Guide for Students and Instructors', I found out the following about the origins of staff set: (this is a quote from my book)
The
Staff Set gives an introduction to long-range weaponry and provides several aspects of three-dimensional staff fighting. The main purpose of the set is to show how the staff can be used as an extension of one’s own body. It is required for promotion to 2nd Degree Brown Belt 1. While most Kenpoists claim that Chuck Sullivan (currently a 10th Degree Black Belt and co-founder of the International Karate Connection Association) created the Staff Set, actually that is not true. The Staff Set came from a Chinese Kung Fu expert that taught Ed Parker. Once he had the movements memorized, Ed Parker then taught the Staff Set to Chuck Sullivan. Seeing a lot of repetitiveness, particularly with the spinning maneuvers, Sullivan streamlined the Staff Set and got the approval of the new version from Ed Parker.
Here's a little bit of information on Long Form 7 (again another quote):
Long Form 7 is a form done with two sticks, and the movements replicate self-defense techniques that are done empty-handed earlier on in the American Kenpo belt system. Stepping off the line of attack is a continuous theme throughout the form. It is the 4th Degree Black Belt form.
Long Form 7 was originally the double knife form, and not the double club form. When the double club form was added to the curriculum, the double knife form was bumped up to Long Form 8.
Hope that helps.
Jamie Seabrook
www.seabrook.gotkenpo.com