Katsudo

, alternately Katsudo, is a condensed style of Okinawan karate which was developed by Gary Yutaka Yano. Katsudo translates to "The Way of Victory," but is known by its students as "The Art of Winning." It is adapted largely from Isshin-ryÅ«, but combines elements of Taekwondo/Hapkido, Judo, Jujutsu, Aikido, Ninjutsu, and Kendo, as well as combining modern elements from Mixed martial arts.

Katsudo Philosophy
Katsudo was designed with the intention of being a complete martial arts form that would provide the most realistic application of karate in a real-world setting. Motions that are considered to be wasteful in other martial arts techniques have been minimized or removed, allowing a split-second advantage over opponents utilizing other styles of fighting.

Katsudo Features
The majority of strikes are thrown from a natural stance, and in combination with snap-punches and snap-kicks, permit the user to move in and out quickly without committing themselves to a disadvantaged position. Punches are thrown using the Isshin-ryÅ« vertical punch, in which the fingers are tucked in and the thumb is placed on top of the fist. The primary advantage of the vertical punch is that the placement of the thumb raises the cords along the back ridge of the hand, adding stabilization and power to the punch. The vertical punch is also believed to be quicker than the standard "corkscrew" punch of other martial arts forms, and is believed to be capable of delivering the same power as a corkscrew punch from any range.

The style is specifically adapted to American physique and temperament, enabling its students to more effectively defend themselves without the need for extensive devotion and physical training.

Training
Katsudo utilizes many of the training tools of Isshin-ryÅ«, modifying them as needed to apply to the Katsudo philosophy.
Chart Techniques
Katsudo enforces development of the student's upper and lower body strength through application of the Isshin-ryÅ« chart techniques. They focus on the development of the whole body and overall strength throughout the growth of the student's muscles, body and abilities. All charts are completed both right-handed and left-handed, ensuring even development of the body and techniques commensurate with Okinawan tradition.

Other Techniques
Kotekitai, or "Iron-Body" technique, is used with frequency in Katsudo during the development of the student. This form of training consists of applying blunt strikes to the striking and blocking surfaces of the body with the intention of building up tissue in these locations which will make the execution of techniques less damaging to the body. Methods of this technique vary between different forms of martial arts; however, in Katsudo the most popular form of kotekitai is the "Iron Gauntlet," in which students will knifehand strike each other on the blocking muscle of the forearm in succession.

Kumite is also applied to students of Katsudo, as with most martial arts forms. Kumite is merely the practice of open, free sparring without following set patterns or procedures. This allows the student to simulate potential real-world situations while applying techniques learned from kata as well as instruction. It also serves as excellent practice for students interested in competing in kumite during martial arts tournaments.

Kata
Kata is the primary method of instruction to the student, assigning formal practice methods for the student to gain knowledge of the application of techniques against imagined opponents. Kata used in Katsudo are inherited from Isshin-ryÅ« kata almost directly, and their applications are identical with that of Isshin-ryÅ« tradition.

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