Shorin-Ryu - see a video of the latest martial arts demonstration here

Shorin-Ryu. American Karate Federation: This art of Karate is an Okinawan style known as Shorin-Ryu Matsubayshi. It is notable for extreme simplicity and directness, being strictly utilitarian in nature. The class never engages in any form of tournament fighting or kick boxing techniques of any sort. Classes tend to be rather physically demanding as we feel befits any activity, which has the potential to be used in life or death situations. It must be noted that Karate is a defensive art. Students are cautioned never to use the techniques they learn to attack or terrify classmates or others. Any student who does so is subject to dismissal.

Students can expect to perform various physical exercises designed to enhance speed, endurance and striking power. As no free sparring of any kind takes place in class - Injuries are kept to a minimum.

Central to Shorin-Ryu training are the KATA. These exercises were developed to simulate all aspects of weaponless combat. The KATA are a series of offensive and defensive maneuvers incorporating traditional fighting techniques using the fists, open hands, elbows, feet and knees. KATA practice teaches the student to flow from one technique to the next with correct posture, balance, timing and breathing while executing the techniques using great speed, power, and focus with incessant practice of KATA, the movements and techniques will become reflexive and instinctive and as such extremely effective.

It is vital for parents and students to know that the atmosphere of the training hall is kept intense and disciplined as a means of facilitating the absorption of physical and psychological effects of the training. Absolutely nothing that is said or done in the class is intended to frighten, harass, or humiliate any individual student. The ultimate effect of Karate training is intended to be the ability to defend oneself against numerically and/or physically superior opponents. Everything that takes place in class is directed toward this effect.

Requirements - student must be at least 6 years of age. Release form must be filled out for Gymcats before attending class, student must wear proper karate white uniform, which will be discussed the first week of class.

Instructor: Sensei Cheetany - a member of the American Karate Federation since 1981 -5th degree Black belt.