ISSHINRYU is a style of
karate that was (officially) founded by Tatsuo
Shimabuku in
1956. The style is a combonation of the better aspects of
Shorinryu and
Gojoryu karate, as well as
okinawan kubodo.
One of the distinctive aspects of the style is the use of a vertical fist, much like is seen in
kung fu styles, but is unique in the fact that the
thumb is on the top of the fist pressing down on the
forefinger, rather then resting on the side. This strengthens the wrist and reduces the risk of a
boxer's fracture.
Isshinryu uses strong
natural stances, usually at shoulder width apart, rather than very wide locked-in stances like other systems. All
kicks fall below the waist with the
groin and
knees as the primary targets. Punches are mainly aimed at the
solar plexus to deliver a blow that knocks the wind out of the opponent.
Due to its simple
logical nature Isshinruy is not the prettiest style of karate, but it is arguably one of the most practical when applied to a
street fighting situation.