I’ve been practicing Isshinryu for over 13 years. I went to Okinawa for a week to train with Master Uechi and Andy Sloane Sensei. Best week of my life.
I have been practicing martial arts for around 20 plus years. Although we didn't use belts, we did have a ranking system. I never took a test to progress in rank. I didn't want that sense of superiority or I'm better than you mentality to creep into my head. If someone is better than me regardless of rank I want to learn from them. If someone is having trouble with something that I understand, it's my job to help them.
I am so happy to see you covering Isshinryu Karate in this episode. That is the style I train in, and I love it. It's rare to ever hear or find things about it but I love it!
I was an isshinryu karate leaner 21years ago. I've trained around 2years only and was forced to stop my training. Till now I am addicted to karate learning and your video motivated me to restart my training. Thanks sensai Jesse ..be humble and spread humbleness...
as a sandan in isshin-ryu i can safely say this was the best video i've ever seen. my training has taught me that karate is a discipline where maintaining a white belt mentality, no matter how much you've learned, is the secret to long-term success.
All ASPECTS of LIFE is a JOURNEY a PROCESS it is NOT a DESTINATIONATION Just your doing CREATIVITY NEVER STOPS it NEEDS REST to REJUVENATE to REVITALIZE
I’ve been practicing Isshinryu for many years. The one aspect everyone struggles with is the vertical punch. It really can be a devastating blow if done correctly. Great video!
I've been doing Isshinryu for 38 years - I loved this episode. Thanks Jesse, it was great watching you pratice it. Sharign this episode with all my students.
I have watched all your videos and learned so much. As a Isshin ryu practitioner I absolutely loved this episode and it saddens me to hear Isshin ryu has been reduced to only 2 dojos left in Okinawa. But thank you for having an open mind to see this style, and showing the respect you did for it.
I've seen hundreds of karate and other martial arts youtube videos. Your videos are the best I've ever come across. It's almost like if I was actually there with you while filming in Okinawa. 👍 Do you by Any chance know if okinawa karate masters use Chinese liniment/ dit da jow for makiwara training?
I LOVED THIS EPISODE!! 20 years ago I had a customer of my business who held a 5th Dan in Isshin Ryu. In the Marines he trained Isshin Ryu and wound up marrying his Masters daughter. He showed me all kinds of great techniques, especially pressure points for use in the clinch. Very unique style. Sad it is dying. I had no idea.
Hello Jesse, I am currently learning Isshinryu in NYC at a dojo called Traditional Okinawan Karate. If you are ever in Brooklyn,NY you are welcomed to stop by to learn some more techniques. Thank you for all of your hard work in bringing your teachings, adventures and life experiences to the masses. May the universe continue to guide your journey warrior !
I actually study the art of Isshin-ryu Karate. I have been in it for a few years now. A lot of the punches and blocks are different than other arts you may see like you mentioned. I love your content, I learn tons of new information from every video I watch of yours! Keep it up!
He Sensei Encamp, I wished I could train under you. I admire your open-mindness to other styles and your kindness. I love my school and my Sensei, but there is a hint of a Mcdojo.
I think it is very inspiring how passionate you are about karate, and how much you know about it, for us karate nerds it’s a treasure to get to see and learn about all those styles and see all those places, for that thank you very much, I hope you keep on spreading all over the world the love for karate, your message have reach many of us! Thank you sensei!!!
it is like scratching my wounds when i see someone practicing karate in its birthplace okinawa ... according to me it may be every karate-kas dream to practice karate in its birthplace...n seriously when i saw u there practicing with old masters i feel myself there too as practicing karate in their dojo..BTW u r so lucky...keep growing Jesse Enkamp☺
"A person who is truly humble, will always have an inner calm" this quote is one that I always keep in mind. Martial arts is so much more than fighting and becoming physically strong. I train in martial arts to gain inner strength and serenity. Thank you for your videos my friend
Loving Karate Nerd in Okinawa p.2. It's really cool to see new styles that aren't commonly practiced outside of Okinawa. You're really an inspiration, and a great example of a karate nerd.
I have been studying and teaching Isshinryu since July 19th 1965. I think what you are doing with your traveling and sharing all the info with us is fantastic and I am a Karate Nerd. I will be 82 years old in March Thank you so much. Ed
I really love your Okinawa videos. I think, we in the West know way not enough about eastern cultures. Such honest documentaries as yours are valuable.
Isshin Ryu appears to make a lot of sense. Watch you Jesse has made me realise that there is no one true "great" karate style and that a complete karate practitioner is someone who who can adapt, change and learn new styles.
Sensei Jesse, your videos are a true inspiration. The virtues you practice (i.e. wearing a white belt when training in other other dojos) exemplify humility. Something I am trying to instill in my students all the time. Nice to have another role model young martial artists can look up to. Karate Nerd in Okinawa has inspired me to pursue visiting and training in Okinawa some day! Thank you for all you do.
Jesse, thank you very much for how you approached this crossing in Okinawa. When I watch your videos, it's as if I was traveling through the region myself. It is excellent to know schools that practically nobody knows, styles and it was very good to have known the monument and the cemetery with the history of the Chinese master and his cave. Regarding the belt, it seems more than correct, it is a way to respect those great teachers and to show that you are learning something new. As always, it is not a belt that shows what you know, but what you carry inside and how you apply it. I'm anxious to see the next chapter. Greetings from Argentina.
Glad you experienced the vertical fist of Isshin Ryu. My master Angi Uazu has been an inspiration for the last 41 years of training. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much for this new season Jesse-san, it reminds me of my own trip there a couple of years ago ! :) According to a legend, there is cave where a Chinese "wako" (pirate) called "Chinto" was living after a shipwreck. He apparently taught many locals and also the famous "Bushi" Matsumura. Here is one of the many possible versions of the story : because Chinto was stealing food from the locals to survive (which of course didn't please the locals and the authorities at the time), they sent Matsumura Sokon. Indeed, this Chinese pirate was so skilled that no one could defeat him thanks to his awesome skills in Quanfa (another generic term for Kung Fu). His reputation became so great that the King of Okinawa sent Matsumura Sokon to defeat him and bring peace to the neighborhood. But despite all his attempt, the great warrior Matsumura could not find and defeat him... So instead he tried another approach and tried to befriend and protect Chinto instead. Mastumura soon realized how great a warrior the Chinese pirate (or merchant according to another version) was. So he learnt from him and would create a kata called.... "Chinto" to honor him and his skills ! Do you know if that would be the same cave by any chance ? (I know there are many caves in Okinawa so maybe that's just another cave for another great story). Glad you didn't meet any snake though ! (PS: I would love to get a poster from the Kaikan for my room as I probably won't make it to Okinawa before a long time :D)
Stumbled on your channel a few days ago. As an Isshinryu practitioner for nearly 20 years, it is great to see the style getting some attention. Great video!
There are very few places I want to visit for sure, but Japan (main land) and Okinawa are definitely on the list. There is such a deep culture and amazing nuances to discover. Thank you, Sensei, for taking us along a trip that many of us may never be able to go on. It is not only an amazing series you've put together, but also a great service to us as karateka to see the roots of our traditions.
OSU, The beginner's mind, and We begin with respect and end with respect. It's what I have taken with me and try to practice each and every day. Its is a way of life, and I'm grateful to Kaicho Nakamura for his teachings. Its is great to hear that you too offer the same good advice, and the humility whenever you share your experience. Osu
Jesse explained in one of his videos Okinawans never say Osu which they consider offending. He said they keep silent or say Hai (yes). You need to learn your lessons and do your homework! 😉
Thanks for the great episode, Jesse, and thanks for sampling Isshinryu with one of the best proponents anywhere. I have had the opportunity to attend Uechi-sensei's seminars here in the Detroit area, and they were excellent. I have practiced Isshinryu since 1968. Keep up the good work!
My first martial art learned from a marine as a dependent teenager on Guantanamo bay military base… you got a white belt and that’s it. We did stuff I could never see schools doing today like running 2 miles barefoot on 100 degree asphalt.. punching 5 gallon buckets of rocks.. isshin-ryu will always be my first love of martial arts.
Isshin-ryu karate- do. That's what we use to call it in the mid 80's when I studied it. Being the only style of karate I practiced, I never knew it was so different. Almost 40 years since I've been active in it, I can still perform the basics. Trust me when I say they were big on the basics. They taught you to advance your techniques. Example-mid block with forward punch was a two part practice for beginners. Including your breathing and stance. Advanced, it was all done in one swift and powerful move. Wish I had studied longer the 3 Years. But teenage life got in the way..
This is fascinating, I study and still Train in Isshinryu techniques, I always love talking to other people who took lessons as a kid in various styles and to see the shock on their faces when I tell them about training regime and what we were actually taught about combat let alone the days of Sparring in the early and mid 90's. Bo-sai katas at full speed with full Sai and War Bo good time's to be a kid.
I love re-watching these episodes even after 3 years of them being posted. I just want to say Jesse that even though your respect is beyond obvious for karate and Okinawa, it also seems obvious to me that the community, culture and people of Okinawa have respect for you too. I know from following you that you used to live there and even though you don't anymore, it really feels as if you can call Okinawa your second home.
This was great Jesse San! You are the Anthony Bourdain of Karate! I really appreciate how you bridge the culture, history, and stories into your work. This is truly worthy of being aired on CNN travel, Discovery, or NatGeo! Is it next Sunday yet? 😜
Love your video's and your insight and knowledge. I'm 69 and just started Goju-Ryu Karate last month, so when someone at your skill level is willing to wear a white belt I am profoundly humbled.
“Once a kata has been learned, it must be practiced repeatedly until it can be applied in an emergency, for knowledge of just the sequence of a form in Karate is useless.” -Gichin Funakoshi
I enjoyed this episode,for sure. As mentioned on another episode,I had studied this style for a couple of years…1990-92,in Tyler Texas. I was unaware at how this style was dwindling down. My time in the Navy,while stationed in Okinawa,sparked my interest in this style. We were taught that this style was a hybrid of Shorin Ryu and Goju Ryu. I am now studying Sil Lim Fut Ga Kuen. Thank you for these videos!!!!
And other interesting fact. In some goju-ryu schools, they punch with an external rotation on the elbow so they can hit like the tate-ken but with the punch in horizontal position.
Jesse, I've just discovered your channel this evening and I love it. I received my Shodan in Isshinryu when I was 15 (42 now), and was lucky enough to have teaching at my dojo be my high school job. I've recently started teaching my son some of the basic techniques and it's caused me to polish up my own practice. I found your video while searching for some Isshinryu references. I LOVE your enthusiasm and what you said about wearing your white belt because you're humbling yourself and trying to learn with an open mind. It was really interesting to hear you comment on the form of the fist and blocking with the two bones instead of one. I knew these were modifications Tatsuo Shimabuku made when he created Isshinryu, but they were what I was always taught. It was cool to hear you talk about those things. Did Master Uechi talk about why the thumb was on top of the fist? We were always taught the knuckle on your thumb was itself a weapon. One of my teachers, Sensei Michael Upchurch, used to show us thumb strikes on all kinds of pressure points that would make our limbs go numb for several seconds (yes, just like Daniel learns in the Cobra Kai series but less dramatic). Thanks so much for this. I'll definitely be watching more of your videos! Arigato gozaimasu!
Un muy buen episodio Sensei, me sorprendió mucho el estilo nuevo de Karate, nunca lo había escuchado ni visto antes y yo también soy un poco nerd con el Karate y las artes marciales en general. Muchas gracias por compartir estas increíbles experiencias y espero que sus viajes continúen, saludos desde Chile.
But seriously my friend I am very grateful to have found such a channel What you do is allowing others to experience beautiful cultures outside of their own that otherwise many of us would never have seen before and I really think that that is a blessing and gift.
Depending on where you live it may be difficult to find an Isshin Ryu school. Since it's not focused on the sport of karate, it's not very commonly taught. I live in Eastern TN in the USA, where one of Tatsuo Shimabuku's students (Harold Long) lived and taught, so there's a reasonable number of schools in the area from his lineage. There's also a concentration of Isshin Ryu dojos in the NY, NJ, PA area thanks to Master Don Nagle. I believe I've read that another former student-turned-teacher settled someone in the Pacific Northwest as well. Good luck in your search for more information.
I had to return to this video after watching the one about Motobu Choki. That one made me read up on Motobu and I learned that one of his students was none other than Tatsuo Shimabuku…the founder of Isshinryu.
Isshin-Ryū (一心流 Isshin-ryū) is a style of Okinawan karate founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku (島袋 龍夫) in 1956. Isshin-Ryū karate is largely a synthesis of Shorin-ryū karate, Gojū-ryū karate, and kobudō. The name means, literally, "one heart way" (as in "wholehearted" or "complete").
Never in my life I met someone who used a white belt while practicing a style that's not their own. It is something that even I never really gave a thought about. This is a very important lesson that I'll definetely pass on. Thank you very much.
@@phillipmoore9012 Exact same here. I’m a 2nd Dan in Song MooKwan TKD currently practicing as a white belt in Chito-ryu Karate. I am not a black belt in this form of Karate, so why would I wear my advanced rank belt from another style in their dojo?
Just found your videos, and I have thoroughly enjoyed them! My sons have been taking Isshin-Ryu here in the states for a little over a year now and they love it! It is so much different that what I learned in Hapkido as a young student myself! Anyway, keep up the awesome videos!
Just discovered your channel. I study an American style of karate that descended from Isshin-Ryu so it’s really cool to learn about the history of Isshin-Ryu and see the techniques that I recognize in my own style.
Jesse thank you so much for highlighting Isshinryu in this episode, have been a practitioner of Isshinryu for over 50 years. It was great to see the basics being taught the way I was taught more than 50 yrs ago here in the states, fyi I know Andy he's a great Isshinryu Kara-te historian.
Thank you so much, Jesse, for allowing us the opportunity to experience this journey with you. It is my dream to one day visit Okinawa to experience this amazing place like you have. I look forward to all of your videos because I learn so much from them and they all have helped me in my own karate journey. I just recently received my 1st Dan in Shaolin Ji-Ken Do, but unfortunately soon after, our dojo had to close down. It has been tough, but I still try to train as much as I can on my own because karate has become such an important part of my life. So thank you for all you show us in your videos and for always being willing to share with us new ideas, techniques, and lessons. Arigatou gozaimasu! OSU!
WOW it's not just a dojo, it's a genuine karate university! i love this! Also my brother studied Isshin Ryu Karate while I studied American Kenpo Karate. SALUTE
Sensei Enkamp, thank you for being an ambassador for Karate, you have brought the ancient ways of the empty hand back to the light of the present creating a huge momentum and in some cases like mine re-invigorating the spirit of the empty hand!
Hi Jesse. I always enjoy your videos. This one was no exception. I respect your honesty about your views and values. As an instructor of Goju ryu I have gain so much first from you blog about 5 years ago. And now have become a RUclips junkie do in part from your videos. Despite the fact that I have wanted to visit Okinawa for the last ten years. This video series has allowed me to see more of it. For that thank you. Safe journey and I look forward to your next video. Sensei Ron (From Ontario Canada)
All styles of karate are good. It just depends who is practising it. Of course, if the karate nerd is doing it,it must be good, as he makes it look simple.🤣😋🥋
Thank you for the tour. For me it was like watching a tour of a hall of fame in sports. To see the relics of you will from the masters of old was wonderful. I’m so glad you share the history of the art, I think sometimes we forget where we came from.
I love the fact that you wear a white belt! Karate is much more than a black belt and showing humility and respect in a NEW dojo is exactly one of the many things we, as karate nerds, should always do. Great video as always!
I have been practicing Isshin-Ryu karate for many years and actually recently earned my 1st dan. It’s a really beautiful style and it takes a lot of work to learn. It also took me a while to get the vertical fist too lol. I also agree with your comment about how you should wear a white belt to a new dojo out of respect because I have seen black belts from other styles come in with their ego at max and that annoys me. They should come in to be willing to learn what we do and be humble and respectful about it.
Hi Jesse San, I always look forward to your videos! I've been training for 40 years and teaching for 27 and still have such an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. I always look forward to your videos. I think that many of us live vicariously through your adventures. You've inspired me to visit Okinawa and experience the culture first hand. You're an amazing ambassador for Martial Arts! We're lucky to have you! I actually got to meet you in Fort Lauderdale last month. It was a pleasure hearing you speak in person and getting a picture. I don't have to tell you to keep doing what you're doing because I know this is your path. Wishing you the best!
Been practicing karate for 10 years and I m always able to relate my karate practice to your videos. I love the episodes and watching at it I feel like I'm there at that time practicing it. I'm 19 and I also have 3 students and I recommend them to watch your videos. Waiting for the 3rd episode. Oss!
Jesse, this by far is my favorite video! It was amazing seeing you study a martial art I’ve dedicated my life too along side Sensei Slone. Thankyou for all of this amazing content and for showing people this art form!! And by the way we share a name! Thanks again sensei, great martial artist and great content!
I am honestly surprised that you haven't received some type of reward for your work in spreading karate in the west. Something that has slurred down to a halt in a lot of non-major first and third world countries since the early 90's. a Lot of federations have tried but they focus so much on THEIR federation that it has given a weird view on karate where the best style is only THEIRS and anything else is a knock-off or inferior. I love how you go out of your way to show all the styles you can and teach a balanced view where you're not focusing on the political and social aspects but rather the original philosophy behind karate as a whole. It's always awesome to see how much you enjoy making these videos and how passionate you are about all of karate, thank you for all the videos and I look forward to seeing season 50 where 80 year old you show us how to still practice karate even with arthritis and a bed pan!
Your experience over there is like a magnet for those who wanna see and feel the same what great masters have been seen, doing and feeling. Thank you for sharing, this is not just very informative, this is inspirational.
I’ve been practicing Isshinryu for over 13 years. I went to Okinawa for a week to train with Master Uechi and Andy Sloane Sensei. Best week of my life.
Sensei Andy Sloan is a great ambassador to Americans visiting Okinawa wanting to learn. He does a lot for very little. K Purvis
Where is this Dojo from Andy Sloane? I will travel to Okinawa and would like to train Isshinryu
@@patrickkamil go to the Dojo bar. They will direct you.
It’s about time someone said “we attach too much pride in the belts we wear” beautifully put Sensei Jesse 😀
Much respect. I loved that comment on white belt. "Always be humble"! As stated.
Honestly even getting white belt is a major achievement but at the same time nowhere NEAR considered master
I have been practicing martial arts for around 20 plus years. Although we didn't use belts, we did have a ranking system. I never took a test to progress in rank. I didn't want that sense of superiority or I'm better than you mentality to creep into my head. If someone is better than me regardless of rank I want to learn from them. If someone is having trouble with something that I understand, it's my job to help them.
A lesson I learned very recently.
Glad I was able to help you train with Uechi Sensei! Thanks for taking an interest in our style!
I am so happy to see you covering Isshinryu Karate in this episode. That is the style I train in, and I love it. It's rare to ever hear or find things about it but I love it!
I totally agree!
How many karatekas does it take to change a light bulb?
Just one, but then all the rest stand around and say "That's not how MY sensei said to do it!"
Twisted is it bad I genuinely laughed my gluteus maximums off
@@superbean8110 call it: FINDI :-)
Hahah great
I spat my tea outside my face reading this ba ha ha ha ha
I was an isshinryu karate leaner 21years ago. I've trained around 2years only and was forced to stop my training. Till now I am addicted to karate learning and your video motivated me to restart my training. Thanks sensai Jesse ..be humble and spread humbleness...
as a sandan in isshin-ryu i can safely say this was the best video i've ever seen. my training has taught me that karate is a discipline where maintaining a white belt mentality, no matter how much you've learned, is the secret to long-term success.
All ASPECTS of LIFE is a JOURNEY a PROCESS it is NOT a DESTINATIONATION Just your doing CREATIVITY NEVER STOPS it NEEDS REST to REJUVENATE to REVITALIZE
D
I’ve been practicing Isshinryu for many years. The one aspect everyone struggles with is the vertical punch. It really can be a devastating blow if done correctly. Great video!
Straight forward punch with knuckles slightly forward and wrist/fist straight instead of turned or rolled over.
@@TheCoco382 I broke my heavy bag with it. Took a couple years.
I've been doing Isshinryu for 38 years - I loved this episode. Thanks Jesse, it was great watching you pratice it. Sharign this episode with all my students.
I have watched all your videos and learned so much. As a Isshin ryu practitioner I absolutely loved this episode and it saddens me to hear Isshin ryu has been reduced to only 2 dojos left in Okinawa. But thank you for having an open mind to see this style, and showing the respect you did for it.
my father is a black belt in Isshinryu and he teaches me what he learned in Isshinryu, I train in American Kenpo and your videos really help me
Thanks for your comments! 👍 Check out the other episode if you missed them: www.karatebyjesse.com/okinawa-karate-season-2/
I've seen hundreds of karate and other martial arts youtube videos. Your videos are the best I've ever come across. It's almost like if I was actually there with you while filming in Okinawa. 👍 Do you by Any chance know if okinawa karate masters use Chinese liniment/ dit da jow for makiwara training?
Fantastic experience , congratulation! 🥋💪
Grazie mille!
Yes, especially for "kitae" practice (conditioning)
I GOT INSPIRED BY YOUR VIDEO KEEP IT UP
I’m a Sho-Dan in Isshinryu Karate! Going for my Ni-Dan in December and have been training in it for almost 10 years! Such a fantastic style!
I LOVED THIS EPISODE!! 20 years ago I had a customer of my business who held a 5th Dan in Isshin Ryu. In the Marines he trained Isshin Ryu and wound up marrying his Masters daughter. He showed me all kinds of great techniques, especially pressure points for use in the clinch. Very unique style. Sad it is dying. I had no idea.
I study isshinryu! Glad to see you practice this in this series!
I heard Isshinryu and it grabbed my attention instantly. That style was the first exposure I had to martial arts as a kid. It's so different.
Hello Jesse, I am currently learning Isshinryu in NYC at a dojo called Traditional Okinawan Karate. If you are ever in Brooklyn,NY you are welcomed to stop by to learn some more techniques. Thank you for all of your hard work in bringing your teachings, adventures and life experiences to the masses. May the universe continue to guide your journey warrior !
I’d love to see more from Isshin Ryu Karate if you ever go back to Okinawa!
Isshinryu was my first karate style and is quite deadly.. I remember learning to attack the attacking limb...
Very good episode. Loved the white belt aproach. The power generation from the back and hips with the vertical fist îs similar to the wing chun way.
You would find many similarities between Isshinryu and wing chun.
I actually study the art of Isshin-ryu Karate. I have been in it for a few years now. A lot of the punches and blocks are different than other arts you may see like you mentioned. I love your content, I learn tons of new information from every video I watch of yours! Keep it up!
He Sensei Encamp, I wished I could train under you. I admire your open-mindness to other styles and your kindness. I love my school and my Sensei, but there is a hint of a Mcdojo.
Isshinryu is my favorite martial art. I haven't practiced in years, but I am glad to hear it is still being practiced.
Jesse is very respectworthy for keeping his humble beginner's mind while being highly accomplished in karate.
I think it is very inspiring how passionate you are about karate, and how much you know about it, for us karate nerds it’s a treasure to get to see and learn about all those styles and see all those places, for that thank you very much, I hope you keep on spreading all over the world the love for karate, your message have reach many of us! Thank you sensei!!!
Been training isshinryu for 27 years. Appreciate this.
it is like scratching my wounds when i see someone practicing karate in its birthplace okinawa ... according to me it may be every karate-kas dream to practice karate in its birthplace...n seriously when i saw u there practicing with old masters i feel myself there too as practicing karate in their dojo..BTW u r so lucky...keep growing Jesse Enkamp☺
"A person who is truly humble, will always have an inner calm" this quote is one that I always keep in mind. Martial arts is so much more than fighting and becoming physically strong. I train in martial arts to gain inner strength and serenity. Thank you for your videos my friend
Loving Karate Nerd in Okinawa p.2. It's really cool to see new styles that aren't commonly practiced outside of Okinawa. You're really an inspiration, and a great example of a karate nerd.
I have been studying and teaching Isshinryu since July 19th 1965. I think what you are doing with your traveling and sharing all the info with us is fantastic and I am a Karate Nerd. I will be 82 years old in March Thank you so much. Ed
I really love your Okinawa videos. I think, we in the West know way not enough about eastern cultures. Such honest documentaries as yours are valuable.
Isshin Ryu appears to make a lot of sense. Watch you Jesse has made me realise that there is no one true "great" karate style and that a complete karate practitioner is someone who who can adapt, change and learn new styles.
Coffee is the only way to go! I love watching different styles of karate. You learn a lot. Thanks for your videos.
Sensei Jesse, your videos are a true inspiration. The virtues you practice (i.e. wearing a white belt when training in other other dojos) exemplify humility. Something I am trying to instill in my students all the time. Nice to have another role model young martial artists can look up to. Karate Nerd in Okinawa has inspired me to pursue visiting and training in Okinawa some day! Thank you for all you do.
Jesse, thank you very much for how you approached this crossing in Okinawa. When I watch your videos, it's as if I was traveling through the region myself. It is excellent to know schools that practically nobody knows, styles and it was very good to have known the monument and the cemetery with the history of the Chinese master and his cave. Regarding the belt, it seems more than correct, it is a way to respect those great teachers and to show that you are learning something new. As always, it is not a belt that shows what you know, but what you carry inside and how you apply it. I'm anxious to see the next chapter. Greetings from Argentina.
Glad you experienced the vertical fist of Isshin Ryu. My master Angi Uazu has been an inspiration for the last 41 years of training. Thank you for sharing.
Amazing!
Thank you so much for this new season Jesse-san, it reminds me of my own trip there a couple of years ago ! :)
According to a legend, there is cave where a Chinese "wako" (pirate) called "Chinto" was living after a shipwreck. He apparently taught many locals and also the famous "Bushi" Matsumura. Here is one of the many possible versions of the story : because Chinto was stealing food from the locals to survive (which of course didn't please the locals and the authorities at the time), they sent Matsumura Sokon. Indeed, this Chinese pirate was so skilled that no one could defeat him thanks to his awesome skills in Quanfa (another generic term for Kung Fu). His reputation became so great that the King of Okinawa sent Matsumura Sokon to defeat him and bring peace to the neighborhood. But despite all his attempt, the great warrior Matsumura could not find and defeat him... So instead he tried another approach and tried to befriend and protect Chinto instead. Mastumura soon realized how great a warrior the Chinese pirate (or merchant according to another version) was. So he learnt from him and would create a kata called.... "Chinto" to honor him and his skills !
Do you know if that would be the same cave by any chance ? (I know there are many caves in Okinawa so maybe that's just another cave for another great story).
Glad you didn't meet any snake though !
(PS: I would love to get a poster from the Kaikan for my room as I probably won't make it to Okinawa before a long time :D)
Stumbled on your channel a few days ago. As an Isshinryu practitioner for nearly 20 years, it is great to see the style getting some attention. Great video!
Welcome aboard!
Really powerful ending lesson on humbleness.
“A great man is always willing to be little.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson
There are very few places I want to visit for sure, but Japan (main land) and Okinawa are definitely on the list. There is such a deep culture and amazing nuances to discover. Thank you, Sensei, for taking us along a trip that many of us may never be able to go on. It is not only an amazing series you've put together, but also a great service to us as karateka to see the roots of our traditions.
OSU, The beginner's mind, and We begin with respect and end with respect. It's what I have taken with me and try to practice each and every day. Its is a way of life, and I'm grateful to Kaicho Nakamura for his teachings. Its is great to hear that you too offer the same good advice, and the humility whenever you share your experience. Osu
Jose Irizarry I trained with a student of Kaicho in Albany NY. OSU
Paul Palencsar Osu
Jesse explained in one of his videos Okinawans never say Osu which they consider offending.
He said they keep silent or say Hai (yes).
You need to learn your lessons and do your homework! 😉
Thanks for the great episode, Jesse, and thanks for sampling Isshinryu with one of the best proponents anywhere. I have had the opportunity to attend Uechi-sensei's seminars here in the Detroit area, and they were excellent. I have practiced Isshinryu since 1968.
Keep up the good work!
My first martial art learned from a marine as a dependent teenager on Guantanamo bay military base… you got a white belt and that’s it. We did stuff I could never see schools doing today like running 2 miles barefoot on 100 degree asphalt.. punching 5 gallon buckets of rocks.. isshin-ryu will always be my first love of martial arts.
Really enjoying this series. Being an ishin ryu practitioner , i really enjoyed this episode even more.
Isshin-ryu karate- do. That's what we use to call it in the mid 80's when I studied it. Being the only style of karate I practiced, I never knew it was so different. Almost 40 years since I've been active in it, I can still perform the basics. Trust me when I say they were big on the basics. They taught you to advance your techniques. Example-mid block with forward punch was a two part practice for beginners. Including your breathing and stance. Advanced, it was all done in one swift and powerful move. Wish I had studied longer the 3 Years. But teenage life got in the way..
This is fascinating, I study and still Train in Isshinryu techniques, I always love talking to other people who took lessons as a kid in various styles and to see the shock on their faces when I tell them about training regime and what we were actually taught about combat let alone the days of Sparring in the early and mid 90's. Bo-sai katas at full speed with full Sai and War Bo good time's to be a kid.
What did Gichin Funakoshi say when asked, “what’s it like being the most respected karate practitioner?” He replied, “I don’t know, ask Jesse Enkamp”
😂😂😂 Funakoshi was always so modest 😜
Tom Davies this comment wins hands down.
I love re-watching these episodes even after 3 years of them being posted. I just want to say Jesse that even though your respect is beyond obvious for karate and Okinawa, it also seems obvious to me that the community, culture and people of Okinawa have respect for you too. I know from following you that you used to live there and even though you don't anymore, it really feels as if you can call Okinawa your second home.
Thank you 🙏
This was great Jesse San! You are the Anthony Bourdain of Karate! I really appreciate how you bridge the culture, history, and stories into your work. This is truly worthy of being aired on CNN travel, Discovery, or NatGeo! Is it next Sunday yet? 😜
I loved the video, I've trained in Isshin Ryu since 1992 and love the art. OSU
Well after watching this visiting Okinawa is now officially on my bucket list! Gotta work hard for it but it would be totally worth it!
Love your video's and your insight and knowledge. I'm 69 and just started Goju-Ryu Karate last month, so when someone at your skill level is willing to wear a white belt I am profoundly humbled.
“Once a kata has been learned, it must be practiced repeatedly until it can be applied in an emergency, for knowledge of just the sequence of a form in Karate is useless.” -Gichin Funakoshi
I enjoyed this episode,for sure. As mentioned on another episode,I had studied this style for a couple of years…1990-92,in Tyler Texas. I was unaware at how this style was dwindling down. My time in the Navy,while stationed in Okinawa,sparked my interest in this style. We were taught that this style was a hybrid of Shorin Ryu and Goju Ryu. I am now studying Sil Lim Fut Ga Kuen. Thank you for these videos!!!!
And other interesting fact. In some goju-ryu schools, they punch with an external rotation on the elbow so they can hit like the tate-ken but with the punch in horizontal position.
Jesse, I've just discovered your channel this evening and I love it. I received my Shodan in Isshinryu when I was 15 (42 now), and was lucky enough to have teaching at my dojo be my high school job. I've recently started teaching my son some of the basic techniques and it's caused me to polish up my own practice. I found your video while searching for some Isshinryu references. I LOVE your enthusiasm and what you said about wearing your white belt because you're humbling yourself and trying to learn with an open mind. It was really interesting to hear you comment on the form of the fist and blocking with the two bones instead of one. I knew these were modifications Tatsuo Shimabuku made when he created Isshinryu, but they were what I was always taught. It was cool to hear you talk about those things. Did Master Uechi talk about why the thumb was on top of the fist? We were always taught the knuckle on your thumb was itself a weapon. One of my teachers, Sensei Michael Upchurch, used to show us thumb strikes on all kinds of pressure points that would make our limbs go numb for several seconds (yes, just like Daniel learns in the Cobra Kai series but less dramatic). Thanks so much for this. I'll definitely be watching more of your videos! Arigato gozaimasu!
You're very lucky to train with some of the world's finest karate Masters in both the seasons of karate nerd in Okinawa...
Un muy buen episodio Sensei, me sorprendió mucho el estilo nuevo de Karate, nunca lo había escuchado ni visto antes y yo también soy un poco nerd con el Karate y las artes marciales en general.
Muchas gracias por compartir estas increíbles experiencias y espero que sus viajes continúen, saludos desde Chile.
Karate is a huge moutain like you said and at this episode we discovered an other way to the top with Isshin ryu
But seriously my friend I am very grateful to have found such a channel What you do is allowing others to experience beautiful cultures outside of their own that otherwise many of us would never have seen before and I really think that that is a blessing and gift.
I'm going to look up Isshin-ryu, the vertical fist has struck my interest. Thanks for another great video, my son and I are eagerly waiting more.
Wonderful! 😄👍
Depending on where you live it may be difficult to find an Isshin Ryu school. Since it's not focused on the sport of karate, it's not very commonly taught. I live in Eastern TN in the USA, where one of Tatsuo Shimabuku's students (Harold Long) lived and taught, so there's a reasonable number of schools in the area from his lineage. There's also a concentration of Isshin Ryu dojos in the NY, NJ, PA area thanks to Master Don Nagle. I believe I've read that another former student-turned-teacher settled someone in the Pacific Northwest as well. Good luck in your search for more information.
Where are you located?? I train in Isshinryu and may be able to help you find someone near you.
@@tayl0124 Perth, Western Australia (more specifically I'm 100km south of Perth). Nearest Isshin ryu dojo is 3500 km away in Sydney. 😔
One guy to check out then is Albery Mady, he has videos online at least showing some Isshin-ryu
Thanks for showing isshinryu. That is the type of karate I practice and it was cool seeing the similarities and differences
No words to describe how beautiful it was !
We attached too much ego and pride in the belts we wear.. So well said. Your humbleness is precious attitude to things we do and learn.
I had to return to this video after watching the one about Motobu Choki. That one made me read up on Motobu and I learned that one of his students was none other than Tatsuo Shimabuku…the founder of Isshinryu.
Once again, you created not only a delightful karate documentary, but a world class travel video in it's own right. Thanks!
Isshin-Ryū (一心流 Isshin-ryū) is a style of Okinawan karate founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku (島袋 龍夫) in 1956. Isshin-Ryū karate is largely a synthesis of Shorin-ryū karate, Gojū-ryū karate, and kobudō. The name means, literally, "one heart way" (as in "wholehearted" or "complete").
Ha ha from Google
It's great to see someone who doesn't just love karate, but loves sharing his experience and vision of it! Thank you, Jesse!
Never in my life I met someone who used a white belt while practicing a style that's not their own. It is something that even I never really gave a thought about.
This is a very important lesson that I'll definetely pass on. Thank you very much.
👏👏👏
I wore a white belt when I attended a Goju club for about a year. I was already 2nd-Dan in TKD (previously Chung Do Kwan Tang Soo Do).
@@phillipmoore9012 Exact same here. I’m a 2nd Dan in Song MooKwan TKD currently practicing as a white belt in Chito-ryu Karate. I am not a black belt in this form of Karate, so why would I wear my advanced rank belt from another style in their dojo?
Just found your videos, and I have thoroughly enjoyed them! My sons have been taking Isshin-Ryu here in the states for a little over a year now and they love it! It is so much different that what I learned in Hapkido as a young student myself! Anyway, keep up the awesome videos!
I love the white belt mentality when visiting a dojo. I'm also leaving this comment because I want one of those posters. :-)
Just discovered your channel. I study an American style of karate that descended from Isshin-Ryu so it’s really cool to learn about the history of Isshin-Ryu and see the techniques that I recognize in my own style.
Jesse thank you so much for highlighting Isshinryu in this episode, have been a practitioner of Isshinryu for over 50 years. It was great to see the basics being taught the way I was taught more than 50 yrs ago here in the states, fyi I know Andy he's a great Isshinryu Kara-te historian.
Maybe we could see more from Isshinryu, kata , bunkai ect, love what ya do.
Thank you so much, Jesse, for allowing us the opportunity to experience this journey with you. It is my dream to one day visit Okinawa to experience this amazing place like you have. I look forward to all of your videos because I learn so much from them and they all have helped me in my own karate journey. I just recently received my 1st Dan in Shaolin Ji-Ken Do, but unfortunately soon after, our dojo had to close down. It has been tough, but I still try to train as much as I can on my own because karate has become such an important part of my life. So thank you for all you show us in your videos and for always being willing to share with us new ideas, techniques, and lessons. Arigatou gozaimasu! OSU!
Please tell me that was chinto cave, my sensei told me about when he traveled there.
WOW it's not just a dojo, it's a genuine karate university! i love this! Also my brother studied Isshin Ryu Karate while I studied American Kenpo Karate. SALUTE
No carrot cake! 😱 Jesse-san you must always re-chomp the carrot cake with coffee!
Great vid
Sensei Enkamp, thank you for being an ambassador for Karate, you have brought the ancient ways of the empty hand back to the light of the present creating a huge momentum and in some cases like mine re-invigorating the spirit of the empty hand!
"It's not a good day to die alright" 🤣🤣😂😂 man so casually
amo este capitulo te no bu y ashi no bu es lo que estan practicando. hojala muestres mas del isshin ryu. grande Jesse!!!!!
The announcer at the beginning sounded like he was advertising a movie. “THE KARATE NERD “. XD
Hi Jesse. I always enjoy your videos. This one was no exception. I respect your honesty about your views and values. As an instructor of Goju ryu I have gain so much first from you blog about 5 years ago. And now have become a RUclips junkie do in part from your videos. Despite the fact that I have wanted to visit Okinawa for the last ten years. This video series has allowed me to see more of it. For that thank you. Safe journey and I look forward to your next video. Sensei Ron (From Ontario Canada)
I really appreciate the fact that you go into every new dojo wearing a white belt. Always learning, always with an open beginner's mindset.
*Best comment...
JK Jesse.
Love your content man. Keep it going, absolute the best karate channel on youtube 👊
Hah! Thanks 😄👍
Jesse-San, your humility and humbleness for me, is the biggest lesson to be taken from your latest episode! Keep making the videos!
All styles of karate are good. It just depends who is practising it. Of course, if the karate nerd is doing it,it must be good, as he makes it look simple.🤣😋🥋
Thank you for the tour. For me it was like watching a tour of a hall of fame in sports. To see the relics of you will from the masters of old was wonderful. I’m so glad you share the history of the art, I think sometimes we forget where we came from.
I really don’t think coffee is supposed to taste like sardines
It was weird... but I like sardines! 😜😜😜
Now imagine sardines tasting like coffee.
I love the fact that you wear a white belt! Karate is much more than a black belt and showing humility and respect in a NEW dojo is exactly one of the many things we, as karate nerds, should always do. Great video as always!
I have been practicing Isshin-Ryu karate for many years and actually recently earned my 1st dan. It’s a really beautiful style and it takes a lot of work to learn. It also took me a while to get the vertical fist too lol. I also agree with your comment about how you should wear a white belt to a new dojo out of respect because I have seen black belts from other styles come in with their ego at max and that annoys me. They should come in to be willing to learn what we do and be humble and respectful about it.
Hi Jesse San, I always look forward to your videos! I've been training for 40 years and teaching for 27 and still have such an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. I always look forward to your videos. I think that many of us live vicariously through your adventures. You've inspired me to visit Okinawa and experience the culture first hand. You're an amazing ambassador for Martial Arts! We're lucky to have you! I actually got to meet you in Fort Lauderdale last month. It was a pleasure hearing you speak in person and getting a picture. I don't have to tell you to keep doing what you're doing because I know this is your path. Wishing you the best!
Been practicing karate for 10 years and I m always able to relate my karate practice to your videos. I love the episodes and watching at it I feel like I'm there at that time practicing it. I'm 19 and I also have 3 students and I recommend them to watch your videos.
Waiting for the 3rd episode.
Oss!
I don't know what I enjoy most; your travels, your karate advice or your humor. Whichever, Domo arigato gozaimasu! Stay humble youngster 👍.
yessssss
Jesse, this by far is my favorite video! It was amazing seeing you study a martial art I’ve dedicated my life too along side Sensei Slone. Thankyou for all of this amazing content and for showing people this art form!! And by the way we share a name! Thanks again sensei, great martial artist and great content!
I've known of backwards kata to improve learning, but backwards bike riding? 😂
Wow! Thank you! I have never heard of backwards learning of kata. I will have to look into this.
I am honestly surprised that you haven't received some type of reward for your work in spreading karate in the west. Something that has slurred down to a halt in a lot of non-major first and third world countries since the early 90's. a Lot of federations have tried but they focus so much on THEIR federation that it has given a weird view on karate where the best style is only THEIRS and anything else is a knock-off or inferior. I love how you go out of your way to show all the styles you can and teach a balanced view where you're not focusing on the political and social aspects but rather the original philosophy behind karate as a whole. It's always awesome to see how much you enjoy making these videos and how passionate you are about all of karate, thank you for all the videos and I look forward to seeing season 50 where 80 year old you show us how to still practice karate even with arthritis and a bed pan!
Haha! Love it 🌟 Thanks for your awesome comment! 🙏
I have no clue what to comment but I like coffee I guess 😂😂
cant o a Snorlax loves everything mate 😂
Your experience over there is like a magnet for those who wanna see and feel the same what great masters have been seen, doing and feeling.
Thank you for sharing, this is not just very informative, this is inspirational.
I used to be an adventurer like you, then I took a sidekick to the knee...
I’m a disgrace😂
😅
This makes me happy. This is the way of Karate I have a shodan in. I’m excited to begin again after seeing the “How to Restart your Karate” video.