About Karate and Ju Jitsu

Karate

The name, Karate, literally means "Empty Hands" and is the art of fighting which uses all parts of the body as deadly weapons. It consists of a series of blocks and counter-attacks which can render multiple assailants incapacitated. The attacks in karate are exemplified by hard punches, hand strikes, elbow strikes, a variety of kicks, knee strikes and sweeps. The movements are forceful and linear in nature.

The Karate taught at Gonosen Martial Arts is Gosuku Ryu style karate. Gosuku Ryu combines the style of force with speed and incorporates methods of Goju and Shotokan karate with Aikido and Judo. Sensei Leo Byrd is associated with The International Karate Association. International Karate Association (IKA) was formed in Tokyo, Japan in 1953 and has a current estimated membership of over 100,000 in 45 different countries. Its chief instructor and founder (Soke), Grandmaster Takayuki Kubota, currently teaches in Glendale, California.

JU JITSU

Ju-Jitsu is the "Gentle Art" of self-defense. The practice of Ju Jitsu can be traced back in history more than 2,500 years, but it was introduced to the United States in the early 20th Century. Ju Jitsu is a complex art which has 30 to 50 basic moves which can be combined in an infinite variety of moves. Ju Jitsu can be subdivided into combination of techniques that can be separated into three general areas which allows the portions of the art to be easier to teach. Judo for throws and takedowns using leverage; Karate for strikes and hits; and Aikido for pressure points to nerves and manipulating the attacker's momentum. The practioner applies these techniques while moving in circular motions.

The Ju Jitsu demonstrated at Gonosen Martial Arts is primarily Budoshin Ju Jitsu. Professor George Kirby is the founder and currently teaches in Santa Clara, California.