WHAT IS IT THAT WE LIKE ABOUT ISSHINRYU?

There are many good points and aspects to mention about what we like about isshinryu in this article, so we will only touch on a few. Firstly it is encouraged in isshinryu to think outside the box, to question, to expect, to delve to explore. We like the simplicity of isshinryu-- the use of natural rather than unnatural stances and movements, working with our body not against it, and how isshinryu martial concepts are flexible and adaptable to the individual. Clearly recognizing and identifying the biomechanical weaknesses and strengths of the human body enables the karateka to utilize the hard and soft premise throughout technique, movement and breathing without loosing the jutsu for the sake of art, style or tradition. For example, the concept and practical application of blocking with the muscle rather than the bone, particularly appeals to  feeling more natural. Another new aspect to us is the Kobudo and the way in which the isshinryu empty hand kata and weapons kata blend, one lending and complimenting itself to the other, giving the karateka diverse possibilities of technique and application with whatever object is at hand.

The effectiveness of the isshinryu vertical punch consists in the fact that with the vertical punch we use more muscle than horizontal punch. Of course initially doubtful of the concept we immediately and in a way consciously rebelled against the suggestion of using the vertical punch and in reality retraining ourselves. Until doubt of course gave way to curiosity, leading us to actually applying it. The result was excellent. Of course the versatility of this punch is not lost on kihon either and it clearly prevents or reduces the probability of the striker becoming injured by the blockers. The vertical punch is a valuable method of application: not only increasing the effectiveness of the punch but reducing the probability of injuring the puncher, particularly in the case of the beginner and injured karateka.

Certainly our overall impression of isshinryu is that it tailors itself to the student rather than bending the student to fit isshinryu (i.e. the manner of drinking is either hard or soft). There is no right or wrong way, only a way that is suitable to the practitioner’s needs. This group of karate jutsu practitioners has been lucky to have met Lars Faurholdt Andersen, 5th Dan Isshinryu. Like good teachers before him he has ignited in us the passion that is karate-- awakening in us the desire to truly understand research and explore the many elements of isshinryu karate and beyond.

The methodology employed in teaching and the goal orientated focused classes; inspire us with a hunger and desire to learn more and more about isshinryu and the martial way. Without sounding too dramatic, all of us after many years of martial arts training have been revitalized with an infectious enthusiasm for karate again.