What is Uechi-ryu Karate?
Karate (empty-hand) is a martial art from the island of Okinawa, now part of Japan. It is mostly an empty handed martial art effective against both armed and unarmed aggressors. There are many styles of karate practiced all around the world. The four main styles (ryu) on Okinawa are Goju-ryu, Isshin-ryu, Shorin-ryu, and Uechi-ryu. Uechi-ryu Karate is named after the founder of the style Kanbun Uechi. The style focuses on close-quarter combat. It emphasises both striking and stand up grappling. It is known for using sharp parts of the body (elbows, knuckles) and grabbing and tearing to inflict bodily damage on the aggressor. Uechi-ryu does not have any fancy high kicks, it is a minimalistic and effective style. Uechi-ryu does not require any great flexibility and can be practiced by any age group. One does not need to be a body builder or be in any great shape to enjoy the benefits of practicing Uechi-ryu.
