History of Uechi-Ryu
(est. 1940s)
(est. 1940s)
Uechi-Ryu (上地流) is one of the three major styles of Okinawan Karate. It is named after its founder, Kanbun Uechi, who brought the art to Okinawa after training the Southern Kung Fu style of Pangai-noon in China. After his death in 1948, the art was refined, expanded, and popularized by his son Kanei Uechi.
This Karate style is known for its focus on close-in fighting techniques utilizing all parts of the body including the knees, elbows, fingers, and toes, to deliver devastatingly quick, fight-ending blows. The principle movements of the techniques are based on three animals; the Dragon, Tiger, and Crane.
It is also known for its rigorous body conditioning through the form Sanchin. Through years of harsh training, the body becomes strong and resistant to damage.
instructors
Joan Neide
10th-Dan, Hanshi
Joan Neide began her training in Uechi-Ryu Karate in 1969 at the University of Vermont. Under the tutelage of Howard Flynn in Vermont and David Finkelstein in New York City she received her Shodan rank in 1972. In 1973 she moved to Okinawa where Shinjo Seiyu became her main instructor. During her extensive stay on Okinawa she trained daily at the Futenma dojo with Uechi Kanei. Since her initial stay in Okinawa she has returned periodically to continue her training with the Shinjo family.