Style of Karate
The art of karate in its present form was developed in Okinawa.
Historians believe that it probably was a result of combining
the Chinese art of ch'uan fa (kung fu) with an ancient Okinawan
art of tode. Originally it was called Okinawan-te (Okinawan hand)
and later kara-te or empty hand.
In the 1900's three major styles emerged: Uechi-Ryu, Goju-Ryu
and Shorin-Ryu. Later, after World War II, a somewhat modified
style was developed called Isshin-Ryu. Karate was introduced
to Japan publicly in 1922 by Gichin Funakoshi and later by other
Okinawan masters.
The Goshin-Ryu system of karate taught by the Association is
an Okinawan style comprised of the four major styles: Shorin-Ryu,
Goju-Ryu, Uechi-Ryu and Isshin-Ryu. Goshin means self-defense
and ryu means style. The system utilizes techniques from the
hard styles (hard blocks and one or two very hard counter attacks)
and the so called soft styles ( more finesse type parries, evasive
maneuvers followed up with multiple counter attacks).
The system also features a huge assortment of self-defense techniques.
Elements of modern and ancient Ju-jutsu, Judo and Aikido throws,
pressure points and joint locking maneuvers are taught. Ground
fighting (Ne-Jitsu) is also part of the self-defense training.
Training Methods
Some of the training methods used include: Kata (forms), Kumite
(sparring), various drills, mat work (including breakfalls),
heavy bag training and self defense execution drills.
We teach over twenty empty hand katas (forms) with elements from
all four of the classical styles. We also teach many Okinawan
weapons including the bo, sai, kama, nunchachu, tonfa, eku and
naginata.
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