What is karate?

Translated literally, karate means "empty hand". The oriental art of unarmed self-defense has been around since ancient times. It is the ultimate unification of power, mind and body.

People spend their lives training their spirits as well as their bodies. In addition to being an excellent self-defense system, sport and workout, karate provides a heightened appreciation for one's self and the world. The combination of strength, grace and precision give students self-confidence while developing their body, integrity and serenity.

Simply stated: anyone, any age, and any sex. Take the individual who wishes to heighten her awareness while at the mall, or the professional who, for health reasons, must shed several pounds; plus, the student who desires to raise his or her self-esteem. Karate, as a form of fitness for the mind and body, is a sport for everyone.

Yes and No. Since karate is an individual sport, you can work at a pace in which you feel comfortable. The hardest part of karate is the commitment. As your karate improves, so will your physical power and mind control.

The first three months will be dedicated to basic exercises, punches and stretches. You will also learn basic self-defense techniques that will eventually be used in classroom sparring. You will also learn the moves that will lead you to your first belt promotion.

Karate improves individuals both mentally and physically. Some benefits you will experience from karate are physical conditioning, improved concentration, self-confidence, inner peace, self-defense, weight control, more energy, self-discipline, athletic skill, improved mental attitude, temper control, improved grades, respect for self and others.

The progression of belts depends on the amount of dedication and discipline each student gives. Karate is a non-competitive sport. Students are not compared to one another they are judged solely on individual achievement. The average progression of belts is as follows:

How often should I train?

For a constant progression in belts, biweekly formal classroom sessions and daily practices at home are recommended.

Isshinryu's main objective is the perfection of oneself through both physical and mental developments. As students learn the art of self-defense, they acquire self-confidence, serenity and the ability to concentrate. Isshinryu Karate combines a well-rounded exercise program with some important advantages over other styles, including:

1. Isshinryu kicks and punches are thrown from natural stances, eliminating wasted motions and giving split-second advantages over opponents.

2. Isshinryu stresses proficiency with both hand and foot techniques, making it the most versatile form of karate.

3. Isshinryu is the most realistic style of Karate, stressing "close-in" techniques necessary for "street fighting" where you do not have time for elaborate, time consuming wind-ups of other styles.

4. Isshinryu is the most sensible form of karate, with snap-punch and snap-kick techniques that permit you to move in and out quickly without committing yourself to a disadvantaged position should you miss or misjudge.

5. Isshinryu karate is more adaptable to the American physique than more rigid styles because the Okinawan Master designed it to follow natural body movements.

6. Isshinryu will put you in better physical shape because it provides you with an aggressive exercise program that will improve your muscle tone, speed, suppleness, and mind.

7. Isshinryu may help you in your schoolwork or job since the physical and mental conditioning provides you with an opportunity to "wind down" from daily tensions and frustrations.