Ryukyu Kempo

Ryukyu Kempo Karate-Jitsu is a traditional Okinawan martial art incorporating striking, joint-locking and pressure points. This style of karate is extensively kata-based, having most of our techniques and applications come straight out of the kata. Emphasis is also given to tuite', the Okinawan art of joint-locking, which is similar to the Chinese Chin-Na.

We also incorporate principles and techniques from Modern Arnis, developed by the late Prof. Remy Presas, and Small Circle Jujitsu™ (Prof. Wally Jay), as well as bits and pieces from other arts such as Judo, Aikido and Tai Chi.

Just like our art, our curriculum is based around kata. Each level a kata is studied and broken down into applications. In the beginning students are taught specific application from the kata taught at their level. As a student progresses, they are encouraged to develop their own applications. This helps students think for themselves allowing them to make the kata their own.

Each rank level also includes the study of specific joint-locks, pressure points and other principles which are all interconnected with the kata, making this art very easy to learn.

Here are the kata that are contained in our curriculum.

• Taikyuoku Shodan
• Taikyuoku Nidan
• Taikyuoku Sandan
• Naihanchi Shodan
• Seisan (Old Version)
• Bassai (Old Temari Version)
• Kusanku
• Seipai

As a requirement for black belt, students are allowed to choose a kata from any style and break it down into applications. Though we do focus on empty hand finghting, we also teach the use of an defense from a cane or stick through Modern Arnis principles. In addtion, we also require students to learn a "tradional" weapon as well..