History of

Isshin-Ryu Karate

        If you follow our roots back you'll find traces of Isshin-Ryu that extend back into the 1700's.  Just for example one of the Chinese styles that influences Isshin-Ryu is the art of Ch'uan fa, translated "Fist Way".  This art was taught by the monks of the Shaolin Temples in the Hunan Province of China and is based on street fighting self-defense techniques.

    By the Twentieth Century, Okinawan Karate consisted of primarily two major styles, Shuri-te and Naha-te. The techniques in both styles evolved from the original Okinawan martial art of "Te" (meaning hand) and from the Chinese Martial Arts which had been introduced to the Okinawans.

    The styles of Shuri-Te and Naha-Te were eventually renamed to Shorin-Ryu and Goju-Ryu.  Master Tatsuo Shimabuku was the first man to master both of these styles.  First he called his art "Chan Migwha-Te", which he named in honor of one of his three main instructors, Chotoku Kyan. Kyan was nicknamed "Migwha", small eyed chan.  However, after many years of refinement and study, on January 15, 1954 Shimabuku created Isshin-Do, which combined the best aspects of each style.  In 1956, at the suggestion of Tatsuo's senior student, Eiko Kaneshi, Isshin-Do was renamed to Isshin-Ryu.

    Other masters that Shimabuku trained under included; Choki Motobu, Urshu Matumaura, Gajoko Chioyu, and Tirara Shinken.

    After the occupation of the United States forces in Okinawan, the military sought out Master Shimabuku and employed him to train the service men stationed on the Island.  As a result, great masters, such as, Steve Armstrong, Harold Long, Joe Smith, Arsenio Avincula, Sherman Harrill and Harold Mitchum spread Isshin-Ryu throughout the U.S.

    Isshin-Ryu is based on natural biomechanics. It's punches and kicks are thrown from natural stances, which is why it's been found to be one of the most effective and deadliest forms of martial arts.  In studying Isshin-Ryu you'll learn your size and strength are not as important as your technique and dedication.

Information obtained from the following sources: "Isshinryu Karate, History and Kata" By: Joel Chandler; Master Joe Smith; Okinawan Karate" By: Mark Bishop; Isshinryu Karate" By: Steve Armstrong and "Isshinryu, The One Heart-One Mind Method" By: Allen Wheeler.

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