Karate Lessons - Fall 2008

New this fall at Artistic Motion Dance in Greensboro - Karate class for pre-teens, teens, and adults.

Isshin-ryū Karate

Isshin-ryū (one heart/one mind way) is traditional Okinawan karate known for speed, rhythmical combinations and focus of technique.

The style was founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku who was sought out by United States Marines stationed there after World War II. Master Shimabuku mastered Shōrin-Ryū, Gōjū-Ryū and Kobudō (weapons) among other disciplines to develop Isshin-ryū.

Although Master Shimabuku was only 4' 11" and weighed just over 100 pounds, he quickly impressed the bigger and stronger Marines with how technique and speed can effectively offset brute strength. These Marines brought the techniques and philosophy of Isshin-ryū to the United States.

Students learn the fundamentals of practical self defense such as awareness and conflict avoidance, how to fall safely, and how to properly strike and kick.

Isshin-ryū stresses "close-in" techniques that are more practical on the street vs. high flashy kicks for example. Isshin-ryū techniques are mostly thrown from natural stances, limiting wasted motion, maintaining stability, and giving you split-second advantages over opponents and other styles.

Isshin-ryū uses a "snap style" that permits you to move quickly, deliver more punches or kicks, and lead naturally into other techniques. Training in Isshin-ryū karate also incorporates aspects of Judo and ground fighting.

About Isshin-ryū Karate Instructor Mike Cohen

Mr. Mike Cohen earned the rank of Sho-Dan under Kyoshi Robert A. Kristensen Hachi - (8th)Dan, President of Texas Isshinryu; Karate Kai (www.txikk.com), part of the IWKA (Isshin-ryū World Karate Association). Recently relocated to the Greensboro area, Mr. Cohen began his training under Kyoshi Kristensen in 2000 and became Sho-Dan in 2005. Also in 2005 he took 1st place in the advanced division at the IWKA World Championship in both kumite and kata.

Fall 2008 Dance and Movement Class Registration

• Fall 2008 Registration Details
• Fall 2008 Calendar with Key Dates
• Fall 2008 Registration Form (PDF)
• Complete Fall 2008 Class Schedules with Tuition Info