Fairmont, MN. Ben Madsen, Sensei 1307 Budd St. Fairmont, MN (507)

Transcription

1

2 Fairmont, MN Ben Madsen, Sensei 1307 Budd St. Fairmont, MN (507) Welcome to the Chain of Lakes Karate Club. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and give you a little information about my background in the martial arts, and a little information about the Chain of Lakes Karate Club. I began my training in karate on a part time basis during the summers of 1990 and 1991, at a National Karate chain dojo. In 1992, I began my training in Matsumura Orthodox Karate at the Blue Ridge Karate Club in Fairmont, under Sensei Butch Thiel. In 1994, the Blue Ridge Karate Club became affiliated with Grandmaster Fusei Kise and the All Okinawa Shorin Ryu Karate and Kobudo Federation (Ken Shin Kan). We remained in this style until sometime in the mid 90 s, it was agreed that the club was better suited for a different style of karate. We then joined the Matsumura Kempo style, headed by then Grandmaster Yuichi Kuda. It is in this style in which I earned my Shodan in the early spring of We continued with Matsumura Kempo for a while longer, but soon our group found itself in search of another style. We made a short term transition to Goju Ryu in the interim, and eventually returned to Hanshi Fusei Kise s Ken Shin Kan System (AOSKKF/OSMKKF), under Sensei Loren Engelby, in early It was also around this time that the current Sensei of the Blue Ridge Karate Club voluntarily resigned the position, leaving it to me. Upon taking the class, I made a commitment to continue my training in order to become a more effective teacher. As part of this commitment, this class meets regularly with my Sensei for rank testing and additional training, and adult members are offered the opportunity to attend annual training camps with Master Kise, and semi-annual training camps with the U.S. Directors of this system. Karate has become a very important part of my life, and the training is something I take very seriously. I hope that you find this style of karate as challenging and as practical as I do.

3 As you begin your karate training, there are some very important things to keep in mind. The first, most important thing to remember is that karate is a defensive art, and is meant to be used only in the defense of yourself or loved ones, period. Another thing to remember is that this system of karate is a traditional system, meaning that the principles, concepts, and techniques of this system remained, for the most part, intact throughout the centuries, and have not been watered down or jazzed up for tournament flash like so many other systems. You will find that this system of karate has been designed to be quite natural in its movements, and very practical in its combat applications. Because of this, this system of karate is well suited for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. The framework in which you will learn karate within this system is based upon kata training, drills, free-sparring, and hands-on partner exercises, in addition to some things that are relatively unique to this system of karate. Apart from the open-hand techniques, students will also learn how to fight and defend themselves with weapons, and learn about joint manipulation and grappling. These other areas make this system of karate very diverse, and add to its applicability in the real world. The last important thing to keep in mind is that this school is not a rank mill. Achieving rank will require weeks, months, and years of hard work and training. You will be given official rank in the form of certificates and belts, in one of the largest and most respected traditional karate systems in the world. This rank is serious business and is not just handed out for time spent in grade and a test fee. The Okinawan certificates, signed personally by Grandmaster Fusei Kise, that you will receive with your rank are the same rank certificates given to students all around the world, including the U.S. Marines stationed on Okinawa. Rank is the way that this federation maintains its standards, so because of this your rank must and will be earned. What this means for students is that they will be promoted to the extent of their abilities, bottom line. There is no guaranteed rank that one will achieve within this system. All students learn the concepts and techniques within this system at different rates, and therefore test for rank at different time intervals. Within this system there are some very complex techniques and principles that prove to be more challenging to some than others. This will no doubt be discouraging and frustrating to some at times, but it is just the reality of how people learn and progress. Hopefully it is this challenge along with the constant striving for improvement that will keep you training, and ultimately make you a better martial artist, and a better person.

4 Business Procedures of the Chain of Lakes Karate Club In order to be a member of the Chain of Lakes Karate Club, you must also be a member of the O.S.M.K.K.F. The fee for this membership is included in your regular monthly dues, and is sent to Okinawa on a quarterly basis. Upon entrance into the class, you will be given two registration forms and waivers that will need to be signed and turned in before you can begin your training. Membership Dues: Monthly membership dues are what provides the club with the funds it takes to operate. Dues cover the rent of the facility where we train, equipment that the class uses, and compensates the sensei for his time. Because of the rental agreement this club has with the owner of the facility we use, it is very important that dues are paid within the first week of each month. Because of the complexity of many of the concepts of this style of karate, and the lack of a full-time assistant teacher, minimum age limits have been put in place. It is often quite difficult for children younger than the age of 12 to fully grasp the principles that make this style of karate work. This most often results frustration and feelings of being left behind on the part of the child. It also requires a disproportionate amount of the sensei s attention, which is not fair to the rest of the class. Because of this, parents that wish to have a child under the minimum age join the class are encouraged to participate as well, so they can help the child during class and at home. Monthly membership dues: Adults 14 and up: $40.00 Children 12 13: $35.00 Couples or parent/child: $ or more: Variable Active law enforcement and military personnel are welcome to become members of the Chain of Lakes Karate Club at no monthly cost. This doesn t make it completely free, but it eliminates the costs that are under my control. Other costs such as rank testing fees must still be paid by everyone, because these are the fees that are sent to Okinawa and fund the O.S.M.K.K.F.

5 Other costs associated with being a member: Test Fees: Rank testing fees are periodic, and vary depending on the rank. There are 10 tests from the time that a student joins to the time that he or she attains a 1 st degree black belt rank. These tests are typically spread out over a period usually between 3 and 7 years for adult students. The fees for testing start at $30 and rise, dependent on the rank. Uniforms: Uniforms, or gis, are required apparel during class. These range in price from $30 to $250, depending on the brand, size, and weight of the fabric. A standard heavyweight adult uniform is usually around $50. Once you get your gi, you have the option of having it embroidered with the federation and Chain of Lakes logos. The cost for this ranges between $15 and $45, depending on the amount of embroidery. Weapons: Weapons are not usually needed until several months into a student s training. Students will usually only need one weapon at a time, as they are not required until certain rank levels. There are 3 weapons that will be used between the ranks of white belt and 1 st degree black belt. They are: Bo: The bo is the first weapon, and can be purchased for $20 - $30 Sais: This is a pair of weapons that will be required around the green belt rank. The cost for these weapons varies depending on the company from which they are ordered, but a good entry level set will cost around $40 - $50. Kamas: This is a pair of weapons that will be required around the brown belt rank. The cost for these weapons also varies, and ranges between $20 - $50. Sparring Equipment: Sparring equipment is required for full contact sparring. The club does have youth sized loaner equipment that can be borrowed for the short term, but it is highly recommended that if you are not going to be outgrowing your pads anytime soon, that you get your own set. Headgear is required for kids and optional for adults; hand pads are required for everyone; foot protection is required for everyone; and mouth guards and athletic cups are optional. The cost of sparring gear varies depending on the type, material, and brand. A full set of good equipment could probably be purchased for around $80.

6 Class cancellations: Class is not often cancelled, but it does happen from time to time for various reasons. Generally there will be no class on holidays (real holidays), nor during the time of our annual training camps, as usually the sensei and senior students will be in attendance there. If class is to be cancelled for any other reason, I will try to send out s and call ahead of time to let people know. Weather related cancellations: I only live a couple of blocks away from where we train, so I will probably be able to get there no matter what the conditions are. If, however, the weather has been severe enough that schools have been cancelled, please stay home and consider class to be cancelled. In other cases when the weather is questionable, please call to see if class is still on (507) Customs and Protocol: The way we act and interact in and outside the dojo is a very important part of being a student of karate. This system of karate adheres closely to the customs and traditions that have been passed down through the generations. The following is a list of protocol items that are to be followed in the dojo: 1. All members shall not use profanity in the Dojo. 2. All members shall remove their shoes before walking on the Dojo floor. 3. All members shall bow when coming onto the deck and leaving the deck. 4. All members shall bow to Sensei when entering and leaving the Dojo with the appropriate greeting or sayonara. 5. Personal cleanliness and hygiene is to be observed at all times. 6. Keep fingernails and toenails short. 7. Keep you Gi clean and neat at all times. 8. Do not criticize other members 9. Do not wear rings, jewelry or other metal ornaments onto the Karate deck. (wedding bands are an exception) 10. Do not practice while intoxicated. 11. Do not take soda cans or candy onto the Karate Deck. 12. No one will be allowed to chew gum during class. 13. Excessive laughter or loud talking on the Karate deck or in the Dojo will not be permitted. 14. Always look after your junior and lend a helping hand to those below you in rank and knowledge.

7 15. Be on time for class. 16. The Karate head instructor is to be referred to as Sensei. 17. Refrain from misusing your knowledge. 18. A report of any and all fights you engage in must be made to your Sensei within 24 hours or at the next class. 19. Do not show anyone who is not a club member any Karate techniques, and do not demonstrate Karate in public except in authorized demonstrations. 20. No one is to teach someone else a kata unless he has the approval of Sensei. 21. No rank is permanent. Sensei may take it away if he feels you are not living up to the standards of hat rank or if you are not a member in good standing with the dojo. 22. Do not leave personal belongings, clothing, or uniforms in the Dojo overnight. 23. No smoking anywhere in the Dojo, ever. (Sensei would like students not to smoke, it hinders your training) 24. Signs and periodic postings are to be observed. 25. If a lower belt is teaching class, they represent Sensei. Give them the proper respect. 26. Try to promote the true meaning of Karate by developing: o Health - physical development o Character - mental development o Skill - proficiency in contest o Respect - courtesy in contest o Humility - never losing sight of your short comings 27. Always follow the chain of command when making requests or asking questions. You will save yourself embarrassment and push-ups Japanese counting: One ichi Eleven ju-ichi Twenty one ni-ju-ichi Two ni Twelve ju-ni Twenty two ni-ju-ni Three san Thirteen ju-san Twenty three ni-ju-san Four shi Fourteen ju-shi Twenty four ni-ju-shi Five go Fifteen ju-go Twenty five ni-ju-go Six roku Sixteen ju-roku Twenty six ni-ju-roku Seven shichi Seventeen ju-shichi Twenty seven ni-ju-shichi Eight hachi Eighteen ju-hachi Twenty eight ni-ju-hachi Nine kyu Nineteen ju-kyu Twenty nine ni-ju-kyu Ten ju Twenty ni-ju Thirty san-ju

8 A Brief History of Karate: Karate, as we think of it today as a distinct system or way of fighting, did not really come about until sometime in the 1500 s. Its early origins (along with many other systems of fighting) are actually quite obscure, but many historians on the subject believe that they can be traced as far back as to the ancient peoples of Africa (namely the Egyptians). From the hieroglyphs found on and in Egyptian structures, it is thought that this first organized or uniform system of fighting was intended for use by soldiers, and ranged in its techniques from wrestling to fighting with weapons of the age. From there it is thought that this organized system of fighting made its way to India, and eventually found its way to China, changing and evolving as it was passed from person to person. From China, this organized (by this time there no doubt several different types) way of fighting made its way to the Ryukyu islands as a result of trade and personal interaction between the people of the two lands. Upon making its way to the Ryukyu Islands, this relatively loosely organized system of fighting began to be developed and refined. Eventually it would come to be developed into a fighting art simply known as te. Te was used by the Okinawan people as a means of armed and unarmed self defense against enemies of all sorts, but mostly invading and occupying Japanese soldiers and samurai. Te made its way around Okinawa and eventually settled into three main cities: Shuri, Naha, and Tomari. In these different cities, te developed and evolved into similar but different styles of the same fighting art. It is really at this juncture in history in which real karate lineages of different systems find their genesis. This particular system of karate descends from the Shuri te style (with a little of Tomari te in the mix). The lineage and history of the O.S.M.K.K.F / A.O.S.K.K.F. EARLY HISTORY OF OKINAWA KARATE Early Okinawan karate, or tode ("China Hand") as it was called, owes its origin to a mixture of indigenous Okinawan fighting arts and various "foot fighting" systems and emptyhand systems of Southeast Asia and China. Being seafaring people, the Okinawans were in almost constant contact with mainland Asia. It is quite likely that Okinawan seamen visiting foreign ports were impressed with local fighting techniques and incorporated these into their own fighting methods. Interest in unarmed fighting arts increased during the 14th century when Chuzan King Sho Hashi established his rule over Okinawa and banned all weapons. A more rapid

9 development of tode followed in 1609 when the Satsuma clan of Kyushu, Japan, occupied Okinawa and again banned the possession of weapons. Thus tode or Okinawa-te, as the Satsuma samurai soon called it, became the only means of protection left to the Okinawans. It was this atmosphere that honed the early karate-like arts of Okinawa into a weapon, enabling the island people to conduct a guerrilla-type war with the Japanese samurai that lasted into the late 1800's. So tode or Okinawa-te was developed secretly, thus preventing the Japanese from killing the deadly art's practitioners and teachers. Tode remained underground until the early 1900's, when it was brought into the Okinawan school system's physical education program. DEVELOPMENT OF KARATE-DO STYLES AND SYSTEMS Chatan Yara was an early Okinawan master of whom some information exists. Some authorities place his birth at about 1670, in the village of Chatan, Okinawa; others place his birth at a much later date. In any case, he contributed much to Okinawa karate. He reportedly studied in China for 20 years. His bo and sai techniques greatly influenced Okinawan kobudo, his Kata, "CHATAN YARA NO SAI," "CHATAN YARA SHO NO TONFA," and "CHATAN YARA NO KON" are widely practiced today. Most modern karate styles can be traced to the famous Satunuku Sakugawa ( ) called "Tode" Sakugawa. Sakugawa first studied under Takabara Peichin of Shuri. Later, Sakugawa went to China to train under the famous Kusanku. Kusanku had been a military attache in Okinawa. When Master Kusanku returned to China, Sakugawa followed and remained in China for six Satunuku "Tode" Sakugawa ( ) years. In 1762, he returned to Okinawa and introduced his kempo ("fist way"). This resulted in the karate we know today. Sakugawa became a famous samurai and was given the title of Satunuky or Satonushi, titles given to Okinawan warriors for service to the Okinawan King. Sakugawa had many famous students; among them were: MATSUMURA CHIKATOSINUMJO SOKON MAKABE SATUNUKU UKUDA SATUNUKU MATSUMOTO CHIKUNTONOSHINUNJO KOJO OF KUMEMURA YAMAGUCHI OF THE EAST (BUSHI SAKUMOTO) USUME OF ANDAYS Sakugawa contributed greatly to Okinawan karate. We honor him today by continuing many of the concepts he introduced. Sakugawa's greatest contribution was in teaching the great "Bushi" Matsumura Sokon.

10 More History Okinawa, the birth place of karate, has produced many versions or individual styles of its barehanded fighting art. Some styles evolved from the teachings of different masters, other styles are indicative of a particular town, or villager family tradition handed down from one generation to another. However in terms of the main stream of historical development of karate, there are really only two styles. One style is known as Shuri-Te (Shuri hands) and the other is Naha-Te (Naha hands). Naha-Te was developed around the principal port city of Naha, a large trade center. This method of Te (empty hand fighting) was perpetuated by Bushi (warrior) Sakiyama (b.1819), Arakaki Kamadeunchu ( ) and Kanryo Higashionna ( ). Naha-Te ultimately became known as Shorei Ryu (inspirational style) and evolved into the Goju Ryu and Uechi Ryu styles of modern karate. The use of soft circlular blocks in Goju and Uechi Ryu make them similar although Uechi Ryu Shows a much stronger Chinese influence. Shuri-Te, on the other hand, was a style that developed mainly in the ancient city of Shuri, the ancient capital of Okinawa. This is where the king and members of the nobility lived. Actually another style known as Tomari-Tewas a closely related system and was considered to be an off shoot of Shuri-Te. Tomari-Te was practiced in Tomari Village. This village was located close to Shuri and was populated mostly by farmers and fishermen. Tomari-Te eventually blended back into Shuri-Te. Ultimately Shuri-Te developed into Shorin Ryu (Young Forest Style). Of the two styles of Okinawan Karate, it should be noted that the Shuri-Te system is characterized by speedy movements rather than the more forceful movements of the Naha-Te system. Shuri-Te was a more offensive style while Naha-Te was a more defensive one. The differences of style are really only surface differences as both styles are derived from similar Chinese martial traditions. Naha-Te seems to have more of the soft-techniques and emphasis on breathing and control of Ki (intrinsic energy) influenced by Taoist philosophy. While Shuri-Te appears to be derived from the Shaolin Kenpo Style. The Shuri-Te style was practiced by the samurai of the court at Shuri Castle. The original Shuri-Te and its evolved counterpart Shorin Ryu traces its history back over two hundred years in Okinawa. Shinjo Choken is a "Dai Jo" or an important figure in Shorin Ryu's history. He is one of the earliest known practitioners of Shuri-Te. He was active in the late 1600's and early 1700's. It has been handed down that after Shinjo Choken another martial artist by the name of Tode Sakugawa ( ) became prominent in Okinawa. In fact, he is considered to be the first true teacher of Okinawan Karate. Sakugawa's martial art was a mixture of Shuri-Te and Chinese Kenpo. In 1756, Sakugawa became a student of the Chinese military envoy Kusanku (also Kushanku). Kusanku was a highly skilled Kenpo master and famous for his fighting ability. Kusanku did many things which influenced Shuri-Te's and ultimately Shorin-Ryu's development. He taught many native Okinawans including Chatan Yara and Shionja of Shuri. He brought some

11 of his students from China to Okinawa and they spread the Chinese style on Okinawa. In addition, it is reported that Kusanku introduced a maneuver whereby the closed fist was held in a chambered or ready position along the side of the torso (hikite)and then from this position a punch was thrown, corkscrewing it in karate fashion, toward the intended target. Kusanku is also credited with the introduction of a type of kumite or sparring to Okinawan karate. This kumite was referred to as Kumiai Jutsu or fighting technique. After his training with Kusanku, Sakugawa became known as an expert in the Chinese style of fighting called Tode. This is the basis for his nickname Tode (Chinese hand) Sakugawa. He is credited with being the first Okinawan Karate teacher. The reasoning behind this is that Sakugawa is said to have combined the techniques of Chinese style Kenpo (Tode) with the native Okinawan techniques of Shuri-Te and thereby formed the basis of a truly Okinawan Karate. He has three students who distinguished themselves as excellent martial artists. They were Bushi Ukuda, Macabe Chokun and Bushi Matsumoto of Urazoe. However his last and most famous student was Bushi Matsumura ( ). BUSHI MATSUMURA Sokon Matsumura, also known as Bushi (Warrior) Matsumura and Shuri Matsumura ( ), was one of the most renowned martial artists of his time. He was known as a master "par excellence" and the organizer and founder of Shorin Ryu Karate. Matsumura is responsible for carrying on the teachings of the old Shuri-Te martial arts. Matsumura chose the name Shorin Ryu (Shaolin Ssuin Chinese) as the name of his Ryu because it is related back Bushi to the Shaolin Temple in China, renowned for its fighters. Although some Matsumura authorities believe that Anko Itosu ( ), Matsumura's student, is ( ) actually responsible for adopting the name Shorin Ryu. Matsumura was recruited into the service of the Sho family (Royal family of Okinawa) and eventually became the chief martial arts instructor and bodyguard for the Okinawan King. At some point in his career, approximately 1830, he went to China and studied the Shaolin style of Chinese Kenpo (fist method) and weaponry. It is also known that he traveled to Foochow in Fukien province, China on numerous occasions as an envoy for the Okinawan King. After his return from China he organized and refined the Shorin Ryu system of Okinawan Karate. Matsumura is credited with passing on the kata or formal exercises of Shorin Ryu Karate known as Naihanchi I & II, Passai Dai (Matsumura no Passai), Seisan, Chinto, Gojushiho (fifty-four steps of the Black Tiger), Kusanku (the embodiment of Kusanku's teaching as passed on to Tode Sakugawa) and Hakutsuru (white crane). The Hakutsuru kata contains the elements of the white crane system taught within the Shaolin system of Chinese Kenpo. Another set of kata, known as Chanan in Matsumura's time, is said to have been devised by Matsumura himself and was the basis for Pinan I and II. Matsumura's Ryu has endured to the present day and the above

12 mentioned kata are the core of Shorin Ryu Karate today. Matsumura was given the title "Bushi" meaning warrior by the Okinawan King in recognition of his abilities and accomplishments in the martial arts. In fact, Matsumura fought many times but was never defeated. His martial arts endeavors, specifically the organization of Okinawan Shorin Ryu system has been the progenitor of many contemporary karate styles, Shotokan Ryu and Shito Ryu, for example. Ultimately all modern styles of karate that evolved from the Shuri-Te lineage can be traced back to the teachings of Bushi Matsumura. This includes Tae kwon Do (Korean Karate). Tae kwon Do was founded in 1955 by General Choi Hung Hi, a member of the Korean Army. According to General Hi, "Tae kwon Do is a synthesis of Taekyon, an ancient Korean form of unarmed combat which mainly employs kicking and karate, a Japanese martial art which chiefly relies on hand techniques". General Hi, the father of Tae kwon Do, studied Shotokan Karate in Kyoto while he was a college student in Japan. Bushi Matsumura before his death passed on his menkyo kaiden (certificate of full proficiency) to his grandson, Nabe Matsumura. Shorin-ryu is the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese characters pronounced "Shaolin" in Mandarin-Chinese. Shorin/Shaolin means "small forest"; "ryu" simply means "methods handed own," "methods of learning" such as those of a school, or "tradition." NABE MATSUMURA Nabi Matsumura ( ) NABE MATSUMURA brought the old Shorin-ryu secrets into the modern age. His name does not appear in many karate lineage charts According to Hohan Soken ( ), the purest teaching of Matsumura's Shorin Ryu was carried on by Matsumura Nabi (c ). He received training in the family style of Matsumura Shorin Ryu which also included the secret techniques of the white crane. The white crane system was reputed to be a secret family style that was only taught to immediate family members. In his later years, Nabe Matsumura was referred to as Nabe Tanme or "old man" Nabe. He was known to be a stern and disciplined teacher. He had only one student, Hohan Soken. It is said he was one of the top karate men of his time. He passed on his menkyo kaiden to his nephew, SOKEN HOHAN SOKEN HOHAN Hohan Soke ( ) The next successor in the lineage of Matsumura Shorin Ryu was Hohan Soken ( ). He began training at age thirteen under his uncle, Nabe Matsumura. Soken had to work in the fields as a youth in spite of his Samurai heritage. This was due to a political reorganization in the Ryukyu Islands and all of Japan as a result of the Meiji restoration. After ten years of basic training

13 under Nabe Matsumura, Soken began learning the techniques of the white crane or Hakutsuru. This was in 1912 when he was twenty-three years old. According to Soken, this was a secret technique or training methodology which was confined to the Matsumura family. Bushi Matsumura had learned the white crane system in China. Soken's instruction in the white crane technique emphasized balance training. One training method that he practiced was to perform the Hakutsuru kata on a board floating in a pond. The board was just large enough to support his weight. The Hakutsuru kata, which was erroneously referred to as the "White Swan" technique in a 1967 magazine article is the advanced level of Matsumura Shorin Ryu. The Hakutsuru technique is the main part of the style. It manifests the Chinese concept of the soft (defensive) fist and balance training while imitating the delicate movements of the white crane. In fact, this concept is inherent and woven throughout all the kata of Matsumura Shorin Ryu. For example, Chinto uses the one legged stance of the crane extensively, Gojushiho uses the movements of the neck and beak of the crane in its technique and Hakutsuru uses the wing (hane) of the crane. Master Soken also trained for a while with Kenwa Mabuni ( ) and Gokenki, a Chinese tea merchant living in Okinawa. Gokenki, Soken, Mabuni and several other Okinawans all trained together as a group. Gokenki's style was Hakutsuru Kenpo (white crane fist style) and he was from the Fukien coast of China. Up until the 1950's Master Soken referred to his martial art as Matsumura Shuri-Te, then he began calling his style Matsumura Seito (orthodox) Shorin Ryu. The empty hand kata of the style included those passed on by Bushi Matsumura (as previously noted). However, Master Soken later added to his system's repertoire Rohai 1, 2 & 3. Rohai means vision of a crane and was originally a Tomari-Te kata dating back to the 1600's. Hohan Soken was a highly respected master in Okinawa. He helped pass on the legacy of Matsumura Shorin Ryu. Perhaps his life is reflected best in his own words - his death poem: "I have taught you all I know. There is no more I can teach you. I am a candle whose light has traveled far. You are my candles to whom I have passed on my light. It is you who will light the path for others. Today I see around me the lights of Shaolin. The flame of tomorrow. My task is done, soon my flame will end. Teach the true spirit of karate-do and one day you may enter the Temple of Shaolin". Hohan Soken's light was most certainly passed on to a candle to help light the way for others. Hohan Soken gave his Menkyo Kaiden to Fusei Kise prior to his death. The legacy of Matsumura Shorin Ryu continues with MASTER KISE FUSEI.

14 KISE FUSEI Fuse Kise ( ) KISE FUSEI was born on May 4, He began his study of karate in 1947 under his uncle, Master Makabe. In 1955, Master Kise became a student to Master Shingake Nobutake and received his shodan. In 1958, Master Kise began studying under Grandmaster Soken Hohan, the third successor of Matsumura Seito Shorin-Ryu karate-do. In 1960, he was a student of Grandmaster Nakamura Shigeru, founder of the Okinawan Kenpo Karate-Do Federation, and qualified for his 7th degree black belt. After five years of training, Master Kise became a shihan ("master") on January 1, 1965, when he passed the 7th dan examination under Grandmaster Nakamura. At that time, Master Kise taught and practiced Shorinji-ryu karate-do. During this time, he continued studying Shorin-ryu under Grandmaster Soken. On January 1, 1957, Master Kise switched completely over to Matsumura Seito Shorin-ryu. On January 3, 1972, Master Kise qualified for the hanshi title by passing the 8th dan examination held by Grandmaster Soken and Master Makabe. Sep 1st 1976 Master Kise qualified for his 9th Dan by Grand Master Hohan Soken. In 1977 Master Kise founded the Shorin Ryu Karate Kenshin Kan Karate and Kobudo Federation. On Oct Master Kise was promoted to 10th Dan by Master Shigaru Tamaiya. In 2001 the Government of Japan gave there Seal of Approval to the accuracy of Master Kise's book. They have stated that he (Grand Master Kise ) is the sole true heir to Matsumora Orthodox Karate, being passed down to him from Hohan Sensei. This has been entered into the official Government Archives. This means there can be no more disputing the Lineage of Matsumora Orthodox Karate. It belongs to our Grand Master Kise. In April of 2001 Grand Master Kise was selected by the Japanese Parliament to receive a prestigious Lifetime Achievement award. He met with senators, other dignitaries and with the other Karate Grand Masters who are received awards (4 or 5 other Grand Masters from Okinawa) at a luncheon in Naha. Kaicho Isao Kise Isao Kise ( ) Kaicho (President) Isao Kise is the President of the All Okinawan Shorin Ryu Kenshin Kan Karate and Kobudo Federation. Kaicho Isao teaches at the Main Dojo, Okinawa City, Okinawa Japan, military bases on Okinawa and has his own Dojo in Okinawa City. Kaicho is the All Okinawan Kata, Kobudo, and Kumite Grand Champion. Kaicho teaches Traditional Karate, Sport Karate, Sport Kumite as well as full contact Karate. He is a senior judge for tournaments throughout the Island of Okinawa. Kaicho has been training since the age of 4 and was born July 27, 1957.

15 Kaicho believes in hard demanding workouts and trains his students to be champions. Kaicho was promoted to the rank of Hachi Dan (8th Dan) on January 18th 1998, and promoted to Kudan (9 th Dan) in Kobudo History (Weapons) The History Interest in unarmed fighting arts increased during the 14th century when King Sho Hashi of Chuzan established his rule over Okinawa and banned all weapons. A more rapid development of tode followed in 1609 when the Satsuma Clan of Kyushu, Japan occupied Okinawa and again banned the possession of weapons. Thus Tode or Okinawan-Te, as the Satsuma Samurai soon called it, became the only means of protection left to the Okinawans. Thus it was this atmosphere that honed the early Karate-like arts of Okinawa into a weapon, enabling the island people to conduct a guerrilla-type war with the Japanese Samurai that later into the late 1800's. The okinawan people developed their farming tools into weapons that were very effective against the samurai. The Kama, Sai, Nunchaku, Bo, and Tonfa are the most common that were utilized. The Oar and Okinawan Brass knuckles are just a couple more. The Bo History The Bo is one of the five weapons systematized by the early Okinawan developers of the style known as te (hand). In feudal Japan it was part of the bugei (early Japanese martial arts) and was used by samurai, priests, and commoners alike. Its six foot length made it an apt weapon against swordsman, disarming the opponent while allowing the user to remain at a safe distance. Traditional use: The Bo evolved from a pole lanced across the shoulders to carry water or other loads (fruits or vegetables). As a fighting instrument, it allowed blocking and striking against a range of weapons. Current use: Now part of the budo, the Bo is still used in kata performance. Physical conditioning with the Bo improves balance and upper body strength. Remember a Bo can be found anywhere; a pool stick, a tree limb, a broom, a mop, etc.

16 The Sai History The Sai: Present in Okinawan and other Asian weapon arsenals, the Sai was used to stab, block, trap and punch. Practitioners often carried a Sai in each hand, and a spare at the belt. The Okinawans would also throw the weapon. Traditional use: The Sai is believed to have originated from basically nothing more than a pitchfork. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various karate stances and techniques, and in defense against sword attacks. Current use: With sometimes dulled points, the Sai is now a karate training weapon. It tests accuracy in striking and quick counter techniques. It also develops strong shoulder, forearm and wrist strength. The Kama History In 1470, when traditional weapons were confiscated by the Japanese military, Okinawan commoners utilized the Kama as a fighting blade, often attaching a chain to the base for greater reach. This longer weapon was known as a kusarigama. Traditional use: The Kama was originally used for cutting grass or sugar cane. In close range fighting, the sickle could be used to trap an opponent's weapon, or for striking. Current use: The Kama is most commonly used in Kata competition and demonstrations although it is also still used in Okinawa today as a farming tool. The forms include circular movements which improve blocking and countering techniques. This weapon will strengthen the wrist and forearm. The Tonfa History The Tonfa was developed as a weapon by the Okinawans, specifically for use in conjunction with karate. Two Tonfa were often used simultaneously, and were very efficient against armed assailants. Traditional use: Originally a bean or rice grinder handle, the Tonfa's circular movements as a

17 farm implement evolved into its rotating strikes as a weapon. The side of the Tonfa was used for blocking, and the ends for direct punches. Current use: Now an advanced karate training aid, the Tonfa aids in development block-andstrike strategies and upper-body strength. It is also used on many police departments throughout the United States. The Nunchaku History The Nunchaku: Developed in the 17th century by Okinawans after the Japanese gained occupation of their land, the nunchaku was one of many harmless looking weapons implemented at the time. The two equal sections were originally held together by horse hair and could be used against armed or unarmed assailants. Traditional use: The nunchaku was originally an agricultural tool used for threshing grain. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various stances and techniques. The sticks could be used for spearing or striking, and the horse hair rope could choke, block, or trap. Current use: The nunchaku is a popular weapon for demonstrations. It is also used as a weapon of self-defense by karate stylists and some law enforcement agencies. The Eku (Oar) History The Eku: This was and still is today used as nothing more than a boat oar. Because the Okinawans were fisherman this was a common device that was found around the beaches. Traditional use: The Eku was very effective against the samurai warrior because of the distance they would be able to keep the samurai away from them. The techniques would involve a lot of kicking the blade of the eku while in the sand throwing the sand into to eyes of their opponent blinding them and then they would easily be able to beat the samurai. Current use: The Eku is mainly used by high level Kobudo practitioners and is not very often seen. Training with the Eku develops coordination, upper body strength, and quickness. The same oar as we use in Kenshin Kan is the same oar they still use in the dragon boat races in Okinawa.

18 Tekko History The Tekko: Used for easing the handling of horses harnessed to carriages. Traditional use: The Tekko were developed from various sources depending on the type used. The tekko/metal knuckle-duster was used from the stirrups of a horse while the wooden tecchu is said to have come from the Okinawan fisherman. The fisherman used this instrument to assist with hauling their nets in order so that the coral would not tear the skin of their hands. Current use: The Tekko is mainly used by high level Kobudo practitioners and is not very often seen. Training with the Tekko develops upper body strength, and quickness. The Tinbei / Rochin History The Tinbei / Rochin: Fabricated from the shells of giant turtles living in the coastal waters around Okinawa. Originally used as a basket for carry vegetables or in the field as a sun-screen. In Kobudo it was transformed into a shield. Traditional use: The rochin and timbe are the most archaic looking of the weapons of Okinawa and yet seem so evolutionary. The timbe (shield) was once made from turtle shells but now wood, metal or fiberglass are used. The rochin was a hand-held short spear with a metal or sharpened wood point. The methods of the two weapons together are obvious but the timbe was also used for striking, not just for blocking. Many techniques with the rochin involve cutting the weapon hand of the opponent and then striking with the timbe. Current use: The Tinbei / Rochin are mainly used by high level Kobudo practitioners and are not very often seen. Training with the Tinbei / Rochin develops coordination, upper body strength, and quickness. It is normally done as a part of demonstrations to keep the traditions alive.

19 The 26 Basics: Basic exercises are absolutely essential to building a solid foundation upon which to advance your training. The 26 basics are a set of 26 basic blocks, punches, and kicks, which make up the basis for this system of karate. These exercises are the exercises upon which many of the concepts and most of the techniques of this system are built and developed. 1. Double middle punches, front stance 2. Double middle punches, straddle stance 3. Double face punches, straddle stance 4. Foot sweep, punch, block, straddle stance 5. Cross-body block, stepping 6. Single bone block, stepping 7. Knife hand block, stepping 8. Step, double middle punch, kiai 9. Low block, stepping 10. Double bone / Middle 45 block, stepping 11. High block, stepping 12. Punch, kick under 13. Step, single punch, kiai 14. Front kick, front stance 15. Block, pivot, kick to the side, straddle stance 16. Shin kick, feet together 17. Side kick, feet together 18. Front side kick, straddle stance 19. Back kick, feet together 20. Roundhouse kick, front stance 21. Side kick, front kick, front stance 22. Front kick, side kick, front stance 23. Low block, up slow, back fast, stepping 24. Reverse punch, stepping 25. Block, sweep, jab, stepping 26. Push-ups Running in place Jumping jacks

20 The 13 Exercises: The 13 exercises are a set of upper body exercises that include some of the blocks from the 26 basics. These exercises are done in a straddle stance. They are done in a straddle stance so that students can isolate the upper body movements to refine their technique and improve their power. 1. Low block 2. Double bone block 3. High block 4. Cross body block 5. Single bone block 6. Knife hand block 7. Rear elbow jab 8. Elbow to the side 9. Mini bear hug 10. Shuto to neck 11. Shuto to side 12. Figure 8 s 13. Triple punch, low, middle, high Black Belt Exercises: The black belt exercises are advanced exercises that pick up where the 26 basics left off. They take techniques from the 26 basics and introduce more advanced ways to do them, resulting in different applications for essentially the same techniques. The black belt exercises also include several techniques which involve simultaneous defensive and offensive techniques. This is to train the student to react and counter instantly. 1. Double Punches 12. Slap Down, Hook Kick 2. Low Block 13. Double Push Down, Toe Kick 3. Middle 45 Block 14. Double Push Up, Toe Kick 4. High Block 15. Middle 45, Low Block, Toe Kick 5. Block, Forearm Strike 16. Knuckle strikes on floor, kneeling 6. Block, Elbow Strike 17. Wrist Push-ups 7. Pinan Shodan 8. Middle 45, Shin Kick 9. High Block, Pull Down, Toe Kick 10. Open Block Grab, Toe Kick 11. Slap Down, Toe Kick

21 Ippon Kumite: Ippon kumite, or one-step sparring, are sets of partner drills designed to develop students abilities to apply the techniques learned in earlier exercises, such as the 26 basics. They are done in a very controlled manner so that students can learn how to block and counter efficiently, and learn to properly distance themselves in self defense situations. White Belt Ippon Kumite: For this set, the stances will be normal, meaning that both the attacker and defender will have the same foot forward. The attacker will attack with the lead hand, and the defender will defend with the lead hand. Attacker Defender Step forward, low punch Step back, low block Step forward, middle punch Step back, double bone block/ middle 45 Step forward, high punch Step back, high block Step forward, middle punch Step back, cross-body block Step forward, middle punch Step back, single bone block Step forward, middle punch Step back, knife hand block Step forward, middle punch Step back, block, sweep, jab Blue belt and green belt ippon kumite share the same essential techniques. The number and order are the same between the three. The differences are seen on the defender s side. Blue Belt Ippon Kumite: These are essentially the same as the White Belt Ippon Kumite with the addition of a counter punch on the side of the defender. The defender will step back and block as usual, but then immediately follow the block with a reverse punch. This set is designed to develop reflexive counter-attack reactions as well as refine students abilities to counter attack to precise targets.

22 Green Belt Ippon Kumite: This set takes the block then counter idea learned in the previous set to the next level. Instead of blocking THEN countering, this set introduces the concept of the simultaneous block AND counter. This set will be done using normal stances unless otherwise noted. Step, low punch Step, middle punch Step, high punch Step, middle punch Step, middle punch Step, middle punch Step, middle punch Attacker Defender Step back, low block with rear hand, punch to ribs with front hand Step back, middle 45 block with rear hand, punch to face with front hand Toe to toe stance, step back, high block with rear hand, punch to ribs with front hand Step back, cross-body block with front hand with a simultaneous arm grab with the other, backfist to head with the blocking hand Step back, single bone block, jab to face with blocking hand Step back, knife-hand block with front hand, scoop arm and pass with the blocking hand, shuffle in and jab or elbow to ribs with the blocking hand Step back, block, sweep, jab with simultaneous kick with the front leg

23 Brown Belt Ippon Kumite: The brown belt set of Ippon kumite introduces some new stances and techniques. The stances are somewhat narrower than those of previous sets, allowing for smoother, quicker body changes, and eventually simultaneous kicks as we will see in the black belt set. Attacker Step, double middle punch Defender Step back, knifehand to inside, cross body block + grab, backfist to temple. Step, middle punch Step back, cross body block + grab, backfist to temple Step, middle punch Step back, shuto block to top of puncher s arm + grab, nukite to armpit or pectoral muscle Step, high punch Step back, rear hand high block + grab, pull hand down and punch to ribs or nukite to armpit Step, middle punch Step back, rear hand knifehand block + grab, punch to ribs Step, high punch Step forward, wansu block + punch Step, middle punch Step back, ridgehand block + grab, wristlock Step, middle punch Step back, double forearm smash, shuffle in, punch to head 3 backfists Wansu block + punch, rear knifehand + grab and punch, pull arm + elbow to spine Step in middle punch, same hand low punch, middle punch. Step back, double bone block, low block, scoop over + grab, backfist to head

24 Black Belt Ippon Kumite: The black belt set of ippon kumite is essentially the same as the brown belt set, with the addition of finger strikes and toe kicks. As with the brown belt set, the narrow stances and quick body changes are emphasized. Attacker Step, double middle punch Step, middle punch Step, middle punch Step, high punch Step, middle punch Step, high punch Step, middle punch Defender Step back, knifehand to inside, cross body block + grab, nukite to throat + toe kick to knee. Step back, cross body block + grab, nukite to throat + toe kick to knee Step back, shuto block to top of puncher s arm + grab, nukite to armpit or pectoral muscle + toe kick to knee Step back, rear hand high block + grab, pull hand down and punch to ribs or nukite to armpit + toe kick to knee Side step, rear hand knifehand block + grab, punch to ribs + toe kick to leg Side step, wansu block + punch + toe kick to knee Step back, ridgehand block + grab + toe kick to knee, wristlock Step, middle punch Step back, double forearm smash, shuffle in, punch to head + naihanchi kick to knee 3 backfists Wansu block + punch toe kick to knee, rear knifehand + grab + toe kick to knee and punch, pull arm + side kick to knee + elbow to spine Step in middle punch, same hand low punch, middle punch. Step back, double bone block, low block, scoop over + grab, nukite to throat + toe kick to knee

25 Change Body Drills: The change body drills are a set of drills designed to develop blocking skills while at the same time moving your body off of the line of attack and repositioning for a counter attack. These are done stepping up and back like the ippon kumite drills. For each drill, the defender will be defending against an attacker stepping forward and punching. 1. Knife hand 2. Double bone, inverted round kick to knee 3. Double bone, inverted round kick to ankle 4. Double bone, front kick to knee 5. Knife hand, arm bar, rear knee strike to leg 6. Knife hand, arm bar, rear naihanchi kick to knee 7. Knife hand, grab, round kick to stomach 8. Knife hand, grab, groin kick 9. Knife hand, grab, double leg kick Kick drills: blocking skills. Kick drills are a set of partner drills designed to develop both kicking skills and 1. Front kick Open low block 2. Front side kick Open low block 3. Front kick Foot catch 4. High front kick Knifehand 5. Roundhouse kick Forearm block, catch 6. Step side kick Step in, catch leg 7. Back kick Low block, back kick

26 Tuite: Tuite is the study of joint manipulation and pressure points. This is the part of the student s training in which he or she becomes familiar close quarters combat and comfortable with grappling. 10 th kyu 1. Same side wrist grab: outside circle, push 2. Cross wrist grab: inside circle, push 3. Double wrist grab: double outside circle, push 4. Same side wrist grab: pull hand back to opposite shoulder combined 9 th kyu 1. Same side wrist grab pull wrist up, push in with belly 2. Same side elbow grab Stretch wrist, push in with elbow 3. Same side shoulder grab Gooseneck armbar 4. Shirt grab / lapel grab Thumb squeeze 5. Lunge punch rear knifehand, armbar 8 th kyu 1. Same side wrist grab Hand trap + kick, circle for wrist lock / arm bar 2. Same side elbow grab Trap, pop elbow + kick, step back, arm bar 3. Same side shoulder grab Trap + kick, step back, arm bar 4. Attempted choke Double knife hand block + kick, step in uppercut 5. Rear bear hug Kick knee, step out, rear elbow, uppercut, back kick 7 th kyu 1. Handshake / cross wrist grab Lift arm, shuffle in, elbow, hammerfist, backfist 2. Buddy buddy grab Grab hand, turn arm, elbow break 3. Hair grab Trap hand, bow 4. Double lapel grab Trap hands, push down double wrist lock 5. Lunge punch Rear knifehand, arm bar

27 6 th kyu 1. Attempted choke Double hand grab, turn over for goosenecks 2. Attempted choke Double hand grab, turn over for goosenecks, separate 3. Praying hands wrist grab Separate hands, hit shoulder, wrist compression + nukite 4. Praying hands wrist grab Separate hands outside, dip, push wrists to armpits 5. Double wrist grab Pull hands up, grab one hand, wrist out turn 6. Same side wrist grab Trap, outside circle, straight wrist gooseneck 7. Same side wrist grab Raise arm, regrab, shuffle in elbow, arm break over chest 8. Elbow grab + punch Block, regrab arm, position hips and throw 9. Cross wrist grab Trap, gooseneck with knuckles 10. Cross elbow / forearm grab Trap, gooseneck 5 th kyu 1. Two hand grab on one arm Lift with both hands, turn, and push 2. Single lapel grab Same side trap, wrist out turn 3. Single lapel grab Cross trap, wrist compression + arm bar 4. Double lapel grab Like #2, but also use elbow to remove other hand 5. Elbow grab + punch Block, regrab elbow (wraparound to inside), throw 4 th kyu 1. Same side shoulder grab Cross trap, circle arm, arm bar + wrist lock 2. Same side shoulder grab Same side trap, wrist out turn 3. Elbow grab + punch Avoid punch, circle arm over, shoulder lock 4. Elbow grab + punch Block, grab elbow, throw 5. Elbow grab + punch Block, pinch hand for gooseneck, nukite, throw