MSBC Karate Club - Who Are We?
by Sensei Eric Lawson, Isshinryu Karate

 

Blessed be the LORD my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle.
(Psalms 144:1)

Who are we?

MSBC Karate Club is a ministry of Main Street Baptist Church. Our Goal is provide students with an alternative athletics program and a useful skill, while also developing character in the areas of Discipline, Dignity, Courtesy and Respect. At the same time giving worship and praise to our Lord a savior Jesus Christ ".whatever you do, do all for the glory of God." (1 Cor 10:31.)

Does it cost anything?

Not money. there is no monthly fee and you will not be required to pay for any testing. Nevertheless, there is a cost; it will cost you some hard work , dedication and sweat . There are some items you will need to purchase for safety reasons (a mouth piece, etc.). Later if you want to purchase a uniform (gi) or other equipment, you are not required to purchase any equipment through us; you can use any source you wish for supplies.

How can a Christian Organization condone "Fighting"?

Karate is not fighting. Karate is for self-defense only. We believe Karate to be a life saving art, not a life taking art. It is only to be used in defense of ones self, or loved ones. Even Peter carried a sword and tried to defend Christ then they came to arrest him in the garden. (see Matthew 26:51) We will not condone any student fighting or using their skills for other than what they are intended. If any situation is brought to our attention, you will be immediately dismissed from the class.

What do we teach?

We teach Isshinryu Karate. Isshinryu is a traditional Okinawan style of Karate and Self-Defense. It was founded by the late Tatsuo Shimabuku after studying other major styles of Okinawan Karate for more than 38 years. It is formed from at least two other major styles of Karate, Shorinyu and Gojuryu. Shimabuku was a student of the founders of both of these styles. Isshinryu was brought to the United States in the 1950's by marines who trained under Shimabuku while in service on Okinawa. "Isshinryu" means "One heart/One mind Method"

What are some the aspects of the style?

  1. Elimination of flashy techniques and wasted motion.
  2. Low kicks (more practical for self-defense)
  3. Blocking with the muscular part of the arm instead of the bone (to prevent injury)
  4. Use of a vertical punch instead of twisting punch.
  5. Equal use of Kicks and Punches. (about 50% each)
  6. Use of higher more "natural" stances
  7. Use of "Snapping" techniques, which allow for faster movements.
  8. 90% extension on kicks and punches, to eliminate joint wear and injury.
  9. Stress on "close-in" techniques more practical for self-defense.
  10. Multi-purpose techniques, blocks can also be strikes; punches can also be used as blocks, etc.

What is the class like?

Class is 2-hour semi-formal session on Saturday mornings, providing students with a class structure, but not a militaristic environment. Below is an example of a typical class:

10:00 AM - Bow in and prayer, class begins

10:00 to 10:15 - Warm up and stretches

10:15 to 10:55 - Basic exercise workout and drills

10:55 to 11:00 - Break

11:00 to 11:50 - Kata (Forms), kumite, self-defense and conditioning

11:50 to 12:00 - Devotional

12:00 PM - Bow Out