|
About Shorin-Ryu, UW
UW Shorin-Ryu Karate is a club sport that has been teaching students martial
arts skills since 1972. Currently we have several Senseis (teachers), many of
whom are students and staff at the university. Students in this class come from
all walks of life, sharing the common desire to study a martial art. The
ultimate goals of this dojo are to teach personal self-protection skills, share
the rich history of the Shorin-Ryu martial arts, and to create a learning
environment for self-mastery.
During an average class, students practice a wide variety of techniques
through drills and kata. The level of activity you may expect is that of an
average basketball game. We utilize individual drills, partner drills, and group
drills. Sometimes we engage in light to moderate contact.
The study of kata is central to the martial arts, and a fundamental part of
our curriculum. Kata are the forms which illustrate how individual techniques
are put together to defend ourselves if ever the need should arise. The kata,
which may be interpreted as a sequence of simple offensive techniques (such as
punching), actually have more subtle interpretations. The Okinawan masters who
studied this art developed pressure point and joint manipulations that allow a
karateka to control a much larger opponent. Our dojo studies these techniques,
and integrates them into an effective personal self-defense system.
Typically, new students participate in learning pressure point methods and
joint locks right away. Our first two kata are readily accessible to new
students. Rank is not based strictly on how long a student has studied martial
arts, but rather by ability to perform kata and explain bunkai (applications).
On average, a new student can assimilate the entire introductory curriculum
within one or two semesters. This represents proficiency at basic techniques and
selected kata.
Advanced students may study the bo and sai as training devices, although
emphasis is still placed on the effective use of empty hands (kara-te) to defend
oneself. Additionally, advanced students earn teaching responsibilities. A
student's training culminates in his or her black belt test, which represents
proficiency in karate. Really, however, the black belt is only a beginning of
another journey, into the great breadth and depth of the martial arts.
Teaching tangible self-defense skills in a friendly, collegiate atmosphere,
UW Shorin-Ryu draws on the strength of its members to enhance the martial arts
experience. Although we pride ourselves on training in the traditional Okinawan
skills, we also incorporate modern methods into our training to assure the best
class content possible. We do not attend tournaments, but individuals are
encouraged to explore seminars that come to the Chicago area. Since we associate
with a second Shorin-Ryu dojo (located at the YMCA), we enjoy a great sharing of
knowledge, skill and camaraderie. We are always happy to welcome new members.
Who do I contact for more information?
E-Mail LJ Janowski, our Sensei, at the following address for
information:
lj.janowski@gmail.com
|
