Isshinryu Karate JUTSU

We offer training in both Isshinryu Karate Do and Isshinryu Karate Jutsu.  Learn more below...

Isshinryu Karate Background

Isshinryu Karate is a martial art that originated in Okinawa, Japan, and it was founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku, a skilled martial artist who played a pivotal role in shaping the style.

In 1954, Tatsuo Shimabuku established his own martial art system, which he named "Isshinryu," meaning "One Heart Way." He sought to create a style that would combine the most practical and effective techniques from the various Okinawan martial arts he had studied. Isshinryu Karate aimed to be a more streamlined, efficient, and accessible system that could be practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels.

Isshinryu Karate stands as a testament to Tatsuo Shimabuku's innovative spirit and his commitment to creating a martial art that is effective, practical, and accessible to all, fostering personal growth and self-improvement along the way. His legacy lives on, not only in dojos around the world but also in the hearts of those who embrace the teachings of Isshinryu Karate.

Karate Do

Karate-Do has evolved over the years, with different schools offering their own interpretations and approaches to the art. Some practitioners may focus more on the sport and competition aspects of Karate, while others may place a greater emphasis on the traditional and philosophical aspects. Ultimately, Karate-Do is a well-rounded martial art that seeks to improve both the individual's physical and mental well-being, fostering a lifelong journey of self-improvement and personal growth.

Karate Jutsu

 Karate-jutsu places a strong emphasis on effective self-defense techniques, including strikes, kicks, blocks, and other techniques that are designed for real-world combat situations. It often incorporates a deeper exploration of kata (pre-arranged forms), bunkai (the practical application of kata movements), and self-defense scenarios. In Karate-jutsu, the primary goal is to develop the skills and techniques necessary to defend oneself or others in a variety of situations.

Isshinryu Karate Jutsu

Dragon Society has chosen to focus on the combative applications of the kata and techniques which work in real-world applications.  This goes well beyond mind-numbing block/punch/kick applications via the addition of Martial Science.  

This is not a new system of karate.  We have named it Isshinryu Karate Jutsu to differentiate it from those organizations who practice Isshinryu Karate Do.  There is an obvious difference when you look at the techniques!

Our program focuses upon three primary benefits:

Membership

Members receive a number of benefits such as curriculum, rank recognition, rank testing, product discounts, and more.


Dojo Curriculum

We offer a series of instructional videos detailing practical kata bunkai to enhance the street effectiveness of the Isshinryu kata.

Rank Recognition & Testing

Have your rank recognized by a world-wide governing body.  

For those wanting to test for rank in Isshinryu Karate Do or Isshinryu Karate Jutsu, we can assist you there as well!

Our Advisory Board also presents teaching titles, known as shogo, such as Hanshi, Kyoshi, Renshi, etc.

Advisory Board

Our board is composed of Isshinryu Karateka from across multiple organizations.  This offers true diversity such that you don't have to worry about karate politics.  Our goal is to help Isshinryu advance without getting bogged down in whose method is better or which leader to follow.  This is about your personal growth and that of our beloved system!

TBD

10th Dan Isshinryu Karate

MICHAEL PATRICK

8th Dan Isshinryu Karate

Bill Adams

7th Dan Isshinryu Karate

Scott Shamblin

9th Dan Isshinryu Karate

Kevin Kline

8th Dan Isshinryu Karate

Erica Smith

6th Dan Isshinryu Karate

Check Out Our Promotion Requirements

We offer promotion requirements for your review for both Isshinryu Karate Do and Isshinryu Karate Jutsu.

Below is an example of a promotion certificate like the one you will receive for Isshinryu Rank promotions.  Please note actual certificates may vary and these are just examples.

For those wanting a Certificate of Title, below is an example:

Steps for Promotion Testing

Step 1

Determine whether you wish to test for rank in Isshinryu Karate Do or Isshinryu Karate Jutsu.

Step 2

Review the appropriate test requirements to ensure you meet eligibility requirements.

Step 3

Inform the advisory Board of your interest in testing.  A board member will respond with how to submit your test video.

Step 4

Pay the test fee, which covers the board's time in reviewing your test materials and providing constructive feedback.

Step 5

Submit a video with all of the requirements.  Please note that not all applications will result in a passing examination.  DSI reserves the right to uphold our standards and only those who meet or exceed those standards will pass the test and be promoted!

Step 6

The board will review your test application and provide constructive feedback.  If you pass, a certificate will be signed and sent to you.

Steps for Rank Recognition (Homologation)

Below is an example of a recognition of rank certificate issued by Dragon Society International.

step 1

Inform the Advisory Board of your Current Rank

You will need to submit a copy of your current rank certificate.  You can contact us via our website to get started.

step 2

Pay the Rank Recognition Fee

This will cover the time for the advisory board to verify the authenticity of your rank certification.  If the board is unable to do so, your request will be denied.  Please note that in such a case, the fee will not be refunded.

step 3

Receive Your Recognition of Rank

If your rank is verified as legitimate, then you will receive a certificate.

12 DVD Isshinryu Karate Jutsu Curriculum

These DVDs were filmed at Grandmaster Allen Wheeler's dojo in Knoxville, Tennessee.  They feature Grandmasters Rick Moneymaker and Michael Patrick demonstrating bunkai to the Isshinryu kata.  We also have the 1966 video of Isshinryu founder, Tatsuo Shimabuku remastered as he performs all kata required for rank.

Become a Member

To be eligible for rank recognition and/or testing, you will need to become a paid DSI member.  You can do so, but clicking the button below and registering as a standard or ultimate member if you are not already one.