About Sacramento Uechi-Ryu Karate
The Sacramento Uechi-Ryu Dojo, led by Sensei Joan Neide (10th Dan) and Sensei Robert Van Der Volgen (9th Dan), teaches the traditional Okinawan karate style of Uechi-Ryu under the Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do Rengokai. Our mission is to preserve and share this art as passed down by our teachers, welcoming students of all backgrounds, whether their goal is fitness, competition, or cultural appreciation. At our dojo we combine traditional and modern training methods to teach real world, functional karate.
Master Kanbun Uechi (est. 1940s)
History of Uechi-Ryu
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.