Standing Fist Martial Arts Academy

Isshin-Ryu Karate

The system we teach is Isshin-Ryu Karate, one of the many forms of karate that originated in Okinawa. Okinawa is given credit for developing karate as we know it today and passing it along to the world. Our style of karate, founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku, is a combination of two older styles, Goju Ryu and Shorin Ryu. It was designed specifically for personal combat, however, Americans have modified the fighting practice to enable us to participate in sporting events.

The hallmarks of Isshin-Ryu Karate include:

Techniques that are delivered from natural stances as opposed to wide, locked positions, giving the practitioner mobility and dexterity;
A vertical fist compared to a horizontal fist. Although not exclusive to Isshin-Ryu, the vertical fist position is unique compared to most styles;
Close-in techniques and low kicks for street practicality;
Hand techniques and foot techniques are equally stressed, so that a practitioner learns to use all of the weapons at his or her disposal.

The Order of Isshin-Ryu

The Order of Isshin-Ryu was founded on January 15, 1971, and is a fraternity of the students of Toby Cooling.

Purpose
The Order of Isshin-Ryu was created to eliminate any and all political feelings involved in Isshin-Ryu Karate; To provide and support shiai for members, therefore keeping the cost of participation by the student low and regulating the quality of judging in fairness for all involved; and To maintain the value of the black belt by strict rules and regulations to obtain the rank. To unite for unification of standards, and to teach the Isshin-Ryu kata and knowledge of karate as taught to us by Master Cooling.

The Order of Isshin-Ryu is comprised of karate-ka who believe in the honor and ethics of the martial arts. A member's word is their bond; when they say they are going to do something, they do it, otherwise, they are in the wrong organization. The Order of Isshin-Ryu is not a religious organization - it is a way of life that holds a common bond for many people from different walks of life.
- Toby Cooling, 1971