Thank you for visiting our website and giving us the opportunity to tell you about Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai Karate. If you are looking to learn authentic traditional Japanese karate and modern sports karate this is the school for you. All of our instructors hold grades issued from the Japan Itosu-kai Headquarters.
Shito-Ryu is one of the four major karate styles of Japan and it combines the features of the two great traditions of Okinawan and Japanese karate from masters Itosu and Higaonna. Itosu-ryu is also considered in Japan to be the foremost in teaching Kobudo, the use of ancient weapons. And, although rooted solidly in centuries of tradition and grim experience, Itosu-Kai gives plenty of emphasis to the modern innovation of the sport of karate.
Karate-do is said to start and end with kata, and in Itosu-ryu we mainly focus on the traditional kata and study techniques and applications to use in practical situations.
After a period of study in Japan, Shihan Kei Tsumura established the Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai program in Canada in 1969.
The Alberta branch of Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai Karate was established in 1979 as a non-profit association, teaching in co-operation with the Federation of Community Leagues, Parks and Recreation and Further Education.
Head Instructor for Alberta is Sensei Joe Barrau (6th Dan Karate, 5th Dan Kobudo). Assistant chief instructors are Sensei Tony Baller, (5th Dan Karate, 5th Dan Kobudo), President of Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai Alberta, and Sensei Mario DiLullo, (5th Dan Karate, 2nd Dan Kobudo). All our instructors have been trained by Shihan Kei Tsumura, 8th Dan, and are certified black belts, registered in Japan with the All Japan Shito-Ryu Itosk-Kai Association in Yokohama and the Federation of All Japan Karatedo Organization (FAJKO) in Tokyo.
We have a proud history of teaching karate in Alberta for over 35 years, and our experienced instructors have a wealth of knowledge to pass on to others who are interested in learning a traditional form of karate.
In September 2014 the Alberta Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai Karate and Kobudo Association celebrated its 35th Anniversary. Click Here to read a message from Sensei Joe Barrau (Rokudan Karate, Godan Kobudo) Chief Instructor for Shito Ryu Itosu Kai Alberta.
Because it is based on ancient methods of self-defence, not sport. This means that most of your training is geared towards improving various aspects of your ability to defend yourself if attacked. We will teach you some of the hidden meaning of the old style exercises (kata) that to this day are still misunderstood by many.
We are part of a world-wide network of clubs. This means we have sister branches in all parts of the world and as you progress with us you will have the opportunity to meet people who do the same style of karate-do as you from all over the world.
If you are interested in more information, check out our Classes for times and locations, or feel free to Contact Us.
You can also check out our Facebook page.
Affiliated with: Shito-Ryu Itosu-Kai Karate And Kobudo Association Canada
For those of you who are new to Shito-ryu Itosu-kai Karate, welcome. From this day forward you are part of an ancient and honorable martial art form.
Karate, freely translated means "empty hand" or the ability of the practitioner to defend themselves without the use of weapons. However, only the student with an open heart and mind can master empty hand techniques.
Karate classes begin with "mokuso", a meditative moment before instruction starts. It is at this time the student should clear their mind of everyday worries leaving it ready to receive instruction.
The practice of "Shito-ryu Itosu-kai Karate" is an invitation to a lifetime of friendship, physical fitness and spiritual strength. As a beginner, you may find the discipline difficult and wearing but remain persistent and dedicated. The practice of martial arts requires training of spirit, mind and body. Therefore you will be working three times as hard as you would in other sports. Remember that all of your instructors felt awkward and, at times, overwhelmed in the beginning.
By enduring and remaining true to the art you will soon begin to experience "budo" or the martial arts way. You will learn to use the power of your mind to defeat an opponent long before you need to use your fists or feet.
Study hard, practice diligently, and follow the instructions of your senseis. Forego ego, be humble, strive for perfection. If you do, you are already on the path of becoming a master!
Kei Tsumura, 8th Dan, Shihan