Isshin-Ryu - Major Karate Style

Isshin-Ryu is one of the main styles of Karate. This style was created by Tatsuo Shimabuku in 1957, who studied Goju-Ryu and Shorin-Ryu Karate. Isshin-Ryu focuses on punches, kicks, kobudo (traditional weapons training), kumite and kata.

This Karate style has schools around the globe but most Isshin-Ryu schools are located in the United States. Isshin-Ryu means "One Heart Way". In addition, the symbol of the Isshin-Ryu is the Megami (sometimes called the Mizugami) or the "Water Goddess".

Isshin-Ryu is known for the vertical punch or vertical fist punch. This is where the fist is positioned vertically for a punch versus the horizontal fist placement see in most traditional punches.

Key Elements of Isshin-Ryu

• Isshin-Ryu Katas - Video and/or written kata instructions.
• Isshin-Ryu Code
• Isshin-Ryu Creed
• Isshin-Ryu Upper Body Basics - There are usually 15 upper body basics taught in Isshin-Ryu.
• Isshin-Ryu Lower Body Basics - There are usually 9 lower body basics taught in Isshin-Ryu.
• Vertical Punch - Details on the advantages of an Isshin-Ryu vertical punch.

Reference Sources

1. Information kindly provided by Michael, Added - 01/04/17