Isshin-Ryu Karate (A self defense system—not a sport) Chief Instructor: Mitch Kobylanski , 9th Dan Member: American Okinawan Karate Association

What is Isshin-Ryu Karate?? Please watch the video below.

About Isshinryu
Master Shinkichi (Tatsuo) Shimabuku was born on September 19,1908, and began his study of karate (Shuri-te) as a boy with his uncle, Irshu Matsumora. Master Shimabuku would eventually train under three great Okinawan masters: Chotoku Kyan, Chojun Miyagi and Choki Motobu, ultimately becoming an acknowledged expert in both the Goju-Ryu and Shorin-Ryu systems. Over time, he refined techniques and concepts from both systems to form Isshin Ryu (One Heart Way) on January 15th, 1954.

Chotoku Kyan was a student of Master Yasutune Itosu, who taught Shuri-te, and of, Master Matsumora, who taught Tomari-te. These two styles were combined to form Shorin-Ryu. He was famous for his powerful kicks, and for his outstanding teaching ability. Kyan was a stern perfectionist, and young Tatsuo Shimabuku achieved the honor of being his best student.

Chojun Miyagi was the number one student of the Naha-te grandmaster, Kanryo Higashionna. Miyagi was known as an exacting sensei whose grueling workouts greatly strengthened the body and built up endurance. Miyagi placed great emphasis on breathing and tension, low kicks, and the development of mind, body and spirit.

Choki Motobu was a less formal instructor, but an accomplished master in Shorin-Ryu, and an indomitable fighter. Coming from an ancient line of Okinawan nobles, he had an eccentric personality and an enormous physique. He is remembered as a brawler as well as a master, teaching both street and classic techniques.

Carolina Isshinryu Academy - Stallings, NC
2246-C Stevens Mill Road
Matthews, NC 28104
Gps N 35.10756, W 80.68114´
Monday and Wednesday evenings:
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Contact: Master Mitch Kobylanski for further information..

You may wear loose athletic clothing.  A karate uniform and sparring equipment is not required for the first month, but highly encouraged.  Uniform prices range from $25-$40 depending on your size.  Sparring equipment is required to protect yourself and your partner during the training session.  Average cost: $60.