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Karate was born in Okinawa when Chinese kung fu was incorporated into the native Okinawan fighting systems. Tatsuo Shimabuku studied with the founders of Shorinryu, Gojuryu, and Motoburyu styles of Okinawan karate. Combining what he thought were the best and most effective techniques from each, along with his own unique innovations, Master Shimabuku developed Isshinryu.
Grand Master Tatsuo Shimabuku
HOW IS ISSHINRYU DIFFERENT FROM OTHER STYLES?
Rather than using the conventional twisting punch that locks out at the end, Master Shimabuku implemented the vertical fist punch that snaps back at the end to the guard position allowing for faster follow-up. This also helps avoid the arm being grabbed and being vulnerable to joint locks.
Blocks are executed with the muscled part of the forearm instead of the bone edge and are used not defensively, but simultaneously as part of the offense. This is one of the key concepts in our method.
Isshinryu stances are not as deep as most other styles. This more natural stance allows for greater mobility and ease of entering, better able to take advantage of the opponent’s position.
