Kihon (基本) is a Japanese term meaning “basics” or “fundamentals.”  The word is made up of two characters: Ki which has a top and bottom meaning foundation or root and earth, and Hon which means base or at the foot of. The term is used to refer to the basic techniques taught and practiced as the foundation of most Japanese martial arts.  Daily practice of kihon is essential to developing correct technique, efficiency in movement, power in application, skill, and confidence.  The most basic level includes stationary blocks, punches, kicks, and stances.  More advanced levels add tai sabaki, kata, and prearranged forms. One third of every training session should be focused on Kihon.

Goju Ryu (剛柔流), (Japanese for “hard-soft style”) is one of the traditional Okinawan styles of karate, featuring a combination of hard and soft techniques.  While the origins of martial arts dates back many centuries, the style we know as Goju Ryu was formalized in the 19th century.  It descended from the Naha-te system originally practiced in and around Naha, Okinawa. Goju Ryu was named in 1931 by Miyagi Chojun Sensei.  The name reflects the nature of the style which has both hard and soft elements.  The name was formed from the Eight Poems of the Fist.  The parts in the name Goju Ryu can be broken down as such: GO – Hard, JU – Soft, RYU – The Way.

Kempo Hakku; EIGHT POEMS OF THE FIST

A Chinese Kempo poem found in the BubiShi, Goju Ryu was named from the third line:

• The mind is one with Heaven and Earth.
• The circulatory rhythm of the body is similar in rhythm to the cycle of the Sun and the Moon.
• The way of breathing is hard and soft.
• Act in inevitable accordance with time and change.
• Techniques will occur in the absence of conscious thought [a clear mind].
• The feet advance and retreat, separate and meet.
• The eyes do not miss even the slightest change.
• The ears listen well in all eight directions.

– The Goyu Kai was founded by Anyu Shijo Sensei, and is led in the same manner as handed down for over 100 years beginning with Kanryo Higaonna Sensei.

Vision: Build healthy minds, bodies, and spirits through the study of traditional martial arts.

Mission: To preserve and teach traditional Goju Ryu Karate; in the same manner as handed down to me by Anyu Shinjo Sensei; in an environment free of intimidation, politics, prejudice, and other distractions.  To foster a spirit of confidence, fellowship, community, and understanding.

Location: Clever, Missouri

Anthony Willis