What is Matsubayashi-ryu Karate-do & Kobujutsu
Matsubayashi-ryu is a style of Karate named by O’Sensei Nagamine Shoshin in 1947, but which, according to historians has an origin which can be traced back hundreds of years to the original Toudi (Karate) of Okinawan and its Chinese Chuan Fa roots.
O’Sensei Nagamine had been a long time practitioner of Karate, having begun training to help him recover from illness, and while he practiced under several top instructors of the time, he named his principle teachers as Ankichi Arakaki Sensei, Chotoku Kyan Sensei, and Choki Motobu Sensei.
Using natural body movements to create both speed and power, Matsubayashi-ryu is considered a close quarter system of self defence, suitable for people of all ages. The techniques of Matsubayashi-ryu place no stress on the body, meaning that it can be practiced for a life-time.
Conflict Resolution
The study of Karate is the study of conflict, its causes, and methods of resolution, and with the central focus of Matsubayashi-ryu practice being on the understanding of Kata (practice templates) through the use of Kumite (partner training), there is always something new and interesting to experience in the study of Matsubayashi-ryu.
Matsubayashi-ryu also includes the study of Kobujutsu, which means Old Martial Techniques, but which has come to represent the study of Okinawan Weapons. For those with sufficient experience in empty hand techniques, there is the study of weapons such as the Rokushaku Bo (six foot staff), Sai (Iron Truncheon), Nunchaku (Flail), Tonfa (Side Handled Baton), Kama (Sickle), etc.
After the passing of O’Sensei Nagamine in 1997, his son and student, the second Soke (Headmaster), Nagamine Takayoshi took over as leader of Matsubayashi-ryu. It was under his leadership that the organisation built together with his father in Asia, and both the North and South American continents was expanded to include Europe and Oceania.
After the sudden passing of Soke Nagamine in April 2012 it was decided to introduce an elected board of officers to oversee the further development of Matsubayashi-ryu and the current President of the World Matsubayashi-ryu Karate-do Association is Yoshitaka Taira Hanshi, 10th Dan.
Details, Where and When
Matsubayashi-ryu Karate-do & Kobujutsu at White Tiger Martial Arts:
Special class for children under 8 years of age organised under the Tiger Cubs division.
Beginners are always welcome and can simply turn up for practice 10 minutes before the class time.
Training is done barefooted and beginners should wear loose, comfortable clothing.
No special equipment is required to start your training in Matsubayashi-ryu Karate-do,
so why not try out a class and see if it’s for you!
