Shohei-Ryu Karate

Also known as Uechi-Ryu, this style is easily identified by circular blocks and focused strikes. Once referred to as "the crossroads between tai-chi and kung fu," practitioners work to balance the conflicting energies of power and grace within mind and body. Through years of training students (karateka) begin to master the "half-hard, half-soft" style founded by Kanbun Uechi. Devoid of acrobatic moves, Uechi-Ryu/Shohei-Ryu karate relies on deflecting attacks and countering with efficient, deadly force. It is a practical method of self-defense that is still highly effective in the modern age.

To learn more about the origins of Shohei-Ryu karate, please see the following link: http://www.squidoo.com/an-introduction-to-shohei-ryu-karate

To learn more about the distinctions between Uechi-Ryu and Shohei-Ryu Karate, and to learn about our emblem, refer to this link:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shohei-ryu

Lastly, here's a link of Uechi's son, Kanei, performing sanchin. Much of the art is rooted in this kata (pre-arranged form); it allows one to learn the fundamentals before moving on to more advanced studies.