Karate in OKINAWA vs. JAPAN (10 Differences)

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Do you prefer Japanese or Okinawan Karate? 🥋

[@Sports_Martialart]

I would prefer okinawan karate if it comes to self defense

[@christodoulos04]

Okinawan karate

[@timdavenport1006]

It's all karate baby!

[@zaneivy]

...personally I prefer the Okinawan flavor (I've studied Isshinryu, Gojuryu, and Uechiryu...but currently do more Chinese stuff). I'll admit though, the Japanese aesthetic is very refined...what they've accomplished with kata performance (timing/pacing, dynamism, precision, etc.) is pretty amazing to watch. In the future it might be interesting to see your take on the national tendencies of "other karates" as well...Hawaian, US mainland (I'm sure there are regional differences there), N. European, Korean, South American etc.

[@marconoris4932]

I'd like to experiment both before making a decision. Maybe after i graduate i could try and take a journey to Okinawa to train there for a few months.

[@stuart5811]

I had a judo instructor that was also a black belt in Japanese karate. He did not like karate because he said it destroyed your knees. The stances in Okinawan karate are much more natural and more easy on the knees.

[@lenel2926]

Is that true?( The destroying knee thing)

[@FrankBrocato]

@@lenel2926 I am really OLD, started Shotokan in 1972. I am sure every body is different in some ways but I still train regularly and have only had a hip replaced. Nothing to it,HAHA .

[@lenel2926]

@@FrankBrocato Thank you for the reassurance senpai 😅😅🙇🏾‍♂️🙇🏾‍♂️

[@Riceball01]

I imagine that this might be true for taekwondo as well. In some ways, it resembles Japanese karate and like Japanese karate, the normal fighting stance is pretty low.

[@gabrielsierra865]

I remember one of Funakoshi's teachings regarding stances; low stance for beginners, higher stance for the experienced. I took this to heart, as I noted that low stances waste a lot of energy and since I never had much endurance, no matter how much I trained, I started adopting a higher, more relaxed stance and guess what? I found that it was easier for me to fight and react to an opponent's movements using a high, relaxed stance. It also helped me to stay longer in the fight in order to end it or being able to escape after my attacker tired up.

[@amyholderness8142]

I love that Okinawan Karate is a "lifestyle." Training can go on as long as you want.

[@finnurth]

Yes, not only training, but you will be receiving intense guidance and coaching along the way, just as you got when you were younger. Try that in any other "sport"!

[@Dr.AutismGod]

​@@finnurth Wrestling

[@alvarofilho2207]

Wow, you basically explained all of the teachings and fights in the Karate Kid movies. Mr Myagi was indeed a Okinawan Karate Sensei.

[@phillipzx3754]

Pat Morita was not a Sensei of Okinawan Karate. He learned enough to act his part in the movie(s) but is was far FAR from being a teacher.

[@tomasbickel58]

@@phillipzx3754 Álvaro didn't mention Mr. Morita.

[@phillipzx3754]

@@tomasbickel58 He wrote: "Mr Myagi was indeed a Okinawan Karate Sensei." Who do you think the part of "Mr. Miyagi" was played by? Hint: It was Pat Morita. I studied in Okinawa. My sensei was Shugoro Nakazato. Google him.

[@kiraakumadevil]

@@phillipzx3754 He means the fictional character is the Okinawan Karate Sensei, not the actor

[@ronaldlee7566]

The late Pat Morita was stunt-doubled by real life and legit Shito-Ryu Karate Sensei Fumio Demura.

[@JayTse-x7l]

Okinawa is much closer to Kung Fu than most people realized. The Okinawans and Chinese shared much common bonds due to their closeness. Until recently, most Okinawa masters travel to China (mainly Fujian) for advancement of their training. Most of the Katas were based on the White Crane styles of Fujian.

[@MrEddienoe]

Yep any style that teaches the kata kushanku or a take off of it holds Chinese influence to there style

[@getsum697]

I lived in Japan for 15 years, five of which was in Okinawa where I studied Shurite and became a Ni Dan...it was quite an honor being the first American to be taught in my dojo; I spent a lot of time there training and had my own key to the dojo after proving myself after about six months. I then moved to Tokyo where I tried to find a dojo/style to progress in but failed to find one that even halfway measured up to what I had already been taught; it was mostly about sport which was frowned on in Okinawa...in fact my Sensei directly told me that if he caught me competing in a tournament, I was done. To him, it was all about keeping the kata and its extrapolations a secret as some of the moves could be used to kill or seriously hurt someone... at least that how he explained it to me. All that said, this is one of the best videos I have seen on the internet realistically breaking down the differences and being correct...at least to my level of understanding. Great Job and I hope you have nothing but success in your future and travels.

[@user-tl1bw4wp1c]

So you lived in Japan for ten years and Okinawa for five

[@sbmumford]

Shuri te sounds like it’s probably close to Matsubayashi Ryu, which came out of Shuri and Tomari?

[@Masushi23]

I practised JKA Shotokan in the past, now I am a 57 year old Shodan with a knee injury and today I decided to learn Goju Ryu Karate, starting with a white belt. Thanks for your great videos and insights, I turned into a Karate Nerd. :)

[@nelsonmcatee3721]

The Shotokan stances are hard on my knees too. That's why I never have stuck with it long enough to get a black belt. I could beat their black belts in sparring, but sparring ability does not make one a martial artist.

[@HkFinn83]

Nelson McAtee that’s pretty much exactly what it makes you

[@victorribeiro2431]

JKA karate is pure toughness and endurance, specially the stances.

[@TravisTofTheLeftHand]

Never had a belt in any martial arts but was trained by my uncle Billy Briscoe.

[@teleguy5699]

@@victorribeiro2431 True. I learned from the old New York by way of Japan G.I. Shotokan style and it was the toughest sport I ever did and I played a lot of football.

[@bpindermoss]

I started off in Kyukushinkai, moved to Hapkido, then Shotokan and finally to Goju Ryu...and my eyes were opened. Goju is brutally effective. Kyukushinkai taught me to fight, Hapkido taught me to have an aggressive attitude but Goju combined both of the previous two with a regard for bodily preservation. I am ashamed to say that there were some holdovers left in my training that I didn't leave behind when I started Goju. I trained far too hard and now have a bad shoulder. All told, Goju is the most effective art I've trained in.

[@1drkstr]

Compassion is the highest value that a Karateka can express.

[@bgdavis5089]

Actually it's Kyokushinkai with an "o".

[@MrArik86]

Effective is nice. A fork is effective at stabbing food. But, effectively eating with your own hand makes eating a whole new experience. Now, may I introduce you to Wado-Ryu karate, the Path of Harmony? I've practiced this under my sensei until achieving 3rd Dan, and have (during and since) also practiced both Kyukushin and Shotokan karate, alongside Krav-Maga and Jiu Jitsu. The one thing I never found in any other style of martial-art that I did find in Wado-Ryu, is *flow*. I don't have a better word for it. It is energy, coming from your opponent at you, and instead of being blocked, stopped or redirected, it is merely 'given back'. Their punch becomes your punch. (or to further the food analogy, instead of *stabbing* your morsel, you just move it) Have fun diving into the rabbit-hole that is Wikipedia etc, maybe you'll find something cool there. Peace to you!

[@crazydiamond3403]

Is hapkido a Korean martial art?

[@musashiblade1512]

I'm looking for a Goju ryu school here in America and can't find one. Only Peter Urban USA Goju. Any suggestions?

[@MrJonnyTapas]

Hi... I am a military brat who spent my adolecent years in Okinawa. I studied Okinawan Kempo under Master Saekichi Odo. He handed me my brown belt before returning to the United States myself. I'm really enjoying these videos. As I returned to the US. My studies didn't mean I could beat everyone up. But that's how my friends interpreted it. As I progressed through my Senior High School life, adult life and now I am a middle aged man. No one wants to fight me. I never had to fight. Nor did those close to me. I feel like I was instructed properly.

[@shokoaragaki5783]

One thing many foreigners do not know is. Okinawa is not Japanese. They have their own language and culture. Japan just took over Okinawa like the US took over Guam.

[@senyengvang3023]

i have gained a whole new respect for Okinawan Karate

[@KarateDojowaKu]

Hi Jesse long time no talk! I’m Yusuke from Karate Dojo waKu. This is such an amazing video! We as Japanese don’t think deeply about this too, so it was a good reminder. Thanks for your content.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Konnichiwa Yusuke sensei! Hisashiburi da ne. 😄 Thank you for watching, hope everything is well! 👍

[@KarateDojowaKu]

Jesse Enkamp The situation is getting better and dojos are reopening :) How about in your country?

[@luigidragonborn]

What style do you practice if I may ask? Greetings from Italy...(bow)

[@ksmsepk607]

こんにちは。 オスと言う言葉についてですが、単純に「おはようございます」を省略したものだそうです。 しかし本州の空手道場などではこれに「押忍」などの漢字を当て、たえ忍ぶ精神、忍耐力、がまん、 のような意味を与えて、わざわざ壁にこの漢字を貼っていたりもします。 この場合、先生や先輩に押忍と返事をするのは「自分が辛くても指示に従って頑張ります」 のようなニュアンスがあるのかな、と思います。 あと付けの意味なので少し変な気もしますし、自分はまったく忍耐力ないんですが…。 もしご存知でしたらすいません。

[@KenpoKid77]

@@luigidragonborn If you're asking about Yusuke Sensei, he studies Shotokan.

[@obiwanquixote8423]

The way you describe Okinawan karate reminds me of old style kung fu schools and boxing gyms. You show up to do work, and the coach/sensei/instructor walks around giving tips. I imagine the hardest working and most talented get more instruction while the ones who are just taking up space get less. The student learns what the student is hungry to learn.

[@jackjackyphantom8854]

Yes karate has its root in Chinese martial arts and it was spread from Okinawa to the rest of Japan. Judo was originally used in mainland Japan which is more practical in my opinion.

[@jakqatif]

So Mr. Miyagi's karate is the original thing!! I'm watching Cobra Kai, It's great !

[@Alaiing]

So true! I watched Karate Kid again a few years back, after years of training in Shorin-ryu and having been in Okinawa a couple times. I was amazed how accurate Mr. Miyagi's teachings actually were!

[@tomjohnson5597]

Strong wind, strong sake!

[@pracylopgonzer3176]

Yea but what he describes as ‘Okinawa karate’ sounds more like Cobra Kai , the emphasis on Striking First, not so much defensive as attacking, use of weapons, practical application as opposed to a path to enlightenment. Sounds like Daniel is teaching Japanese Karate & calling it Okinawa & Johnny Lawrence is teaching true Okinawannkarate

[@brianvelos5403]

@@Alaiing Speaking of accuracy, is that "Wax on-Wax off" routine for real or nah?

[@laurenlaxamana7642]

Coba kai get me back in to karate.

[@mozzif2106]

I don't know how I ended here, but now I want to learn Karate

[@fanysmith2222]

Me too

[@turjo7934]

have you started then?

[@mozzif2106]

@@turjo7934 YES! I've been taking karate lessons for 3 months now :D And I'm loving it.

[@turjo7934]

@@mozzif2106 I am the same. I also have been training karate for 3 months. It's very interesting. My karate style is shito-ryu. What about yours?

[@mozzif2106]

@@turjo7934 I honestly don't remember the name but I have karate today so I'll ask my sensei!

[@garysuarez9614]

Karate starts and ends in self defense. You are bringing back the memories strong, sensei! Edit: studied Okinawan Kenpo/Kobudo. One of the best things I decided to study. Love the culture, love the joy in good execution.

[@mrfreddorenton]

Sounds like a lot of the problems I have with traditional karate was invented by the Japanese spreaders rather than the Okinawan inventors. I've got a lot of studying to do.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Our link to the past is your bridge to the future!

[@jean-lucbrazier809]

Thanks for theses informations. When I was young, I practiced english Boxing. At this time after 25 years when you did'nt decide to be professionnal boxer you had no other choice but to stop. Instead of giving up fighting sport, I went toward Shotokan but unfortunately after my fifties it was no more possible : my body had been abandoning me , it was too painfull. I was about to abandon when by chance I met my Okinawan sensey 8th dan in Shorin Shorinkan and I discoved another world : I'll never find enough words to thanks him. Ten yeas after I can say that I've never been in a such form in my Live.

[@steve5825]

I really enjoyed this as I never realised there was any difference. I used to train in shotokan but arthritis has stopped that now. I really think the Okinawan style appeals to me as a more pure form of this martial art. A lot of karate seems to be more sport than art to me now.

[@manticore4952]

I used to train karate, full contact on wooden floors. My sensei trained bare knuckle before that. I've seen clubs that don't train sparring at all even in BJJ.

[@hirickbam]

Hey look up Chinese ditdat jow for your ailment rick

[@mattman3960]

As a guy who practices shorin, that's the impression that i get too, most of the japanese later styles lost what was essentially the main purpose of karate, which creates two almost completely distinct disciplines

[@NotEbugaming]

I started in Shotokan and studied it for seven years. I learned lots of kata but never really understood what they were for. It wasn’t until I started studying Shito Ryu and Isshinryu that I began to really learn what the purpose of kata is. I went back to a Shotokan dojo for a little bit, but after many years of Okinawan karate, it felt quite foreign to me.

[@carlcanmore2658]

Any of the martial arts had their origin as a fighting art & some evolved into the Hollywood or sport version but if you want the real thing, look for it.

[@gajanannataraj7481]

As a former karateka, I found this extremely interesting and somewhat validating. I've found that striving for kime had been an big hindrance in the flow of my movements. It's nice to know there in an alternative concept at the heart of Okinawa's karate

[@rocco3377]

Personally, I am training Okinawan Shorin-Ryu Shorinkan and it is "The Way" for me. In our Dojo we do respectful start time, everyone on time, but it is very relaxed atmosphere with access to Sensei always. But as a student I try to observe differences in styles of Shorin Ryu and Shotokan and ask questions of WHY? I am a why practitioner as well, but whether I meant it or not, Traditional Okinawan Karate is turning my body into a pile of rippling muscle, every week I seem stronger than the last. This is the path I will take to the end.

[@jamesmacleod9183]

I, Teach the same Style (Shorin-Ryu) Very few understand how you experience karate unless Karate is thought right. On the path of Self Perfection comes Self Protection.

[@ReLeonidaSpartan]

I don't practice karate but we have the same attitude where i train. Laid back and relaxed, the teacher tells us jokes to break our posture when we're doing pushups, every error is laughed at and there's no pressure at all for personal growth. Also there was this old experienced guy who was in the army for 10 years, 30+ years in the field of TMA and he had the same attitude exact attitude. He told me when he was in the army they used to call names on the good officials and be the opposite with the ones who where assholes. It's like the more you are serious the less you actually grow, but with a lighthearted spirit your teacher can focus on what really matters

[@kentbyron7608]

Bravo! Inspiring post! Thanks for sharing your experience about your Path. 🙏🏽

[@rocco3377]

@@ReLeonidaSpartan I think it is the "light hearted" as you say, are actually open to acknowledging that there is growth left to be done. Where the serious often think they are grown. Thank you for you response. :)

[@donedeal725]

I too feel stronger every day, I mean, in my twenties I needed two hands to bend it but now 20 years later i only need one!

[@YourJapans]

why would someone dislike a video with such honest and accurate info

[@battleangelrichard5160]

Bot.

[@remc0s]

Probably BJJ and MMA fighters who scoff at tradition.

[@燕北山前萬梅山莊主人]

The number seven in the list 輔佐運動 literally means assistant exercises. But in Chinese tradition we can it 基本功 , literally fundamental core skills. The stick through stone equipment and the one that looks a bit like kettlebell are Chinese in origin, and we have a lot more varieties in both sizes, weight and usages. 1) The one that looks like barbell with stones at both ends are used for bench press, lift and swinging exercises with hands, shoulders and waist. This is called 雙石頭 Double Stones 2) The barbell with stone at one end only is used as shown in the video if it's light weight, and for kicking, hooking and sweeping if it's heavy weight. This is called 石秤 Stone Weight Measure 3) The one that looks like kettlebells has different names based on weight. Light weight one is called 推子 Pushing Stone and used in Taolu, heavy weight one is called 石鎖 Stone Lock which is used in throwing and grappling.

[@timoteostation]

2:48 even being a black belt in modern karate styles, you wear a white belt while training in an Okinawa dojo. It's a great symbol of respect, it's really something totally new that you're learning from the beginning... Nice to see these details, you're really a humble person, an example for many other practicants like me.

[@Sk27_]

@California love White belt is the first belt you get while Black belt is the highest belt you can get. Although, Black belt isn’t the end, there’s levels of Black belt called “Dans”.

[@Sk27_]

@California love Not a problem brother.

[@Dr._P._Enis]

@@Sk27_ the highest is the 7st Dan, right?

[@phillipzx3754]

@@Dr._P._Enis Maybe I can help. I studied under Shugoro Nakazato. He was a 9th Dan when I strated with him back in 1974. He was later promoted to 10th Dan. Belts were solid red at those levels, red and white at 8th Dan and black from 7th dan to 1st.

[@Sk27_]

@@Dr._P._Enis In my style, Shotokan, 10th Dan is the highest but I’m not sure about others

[@billniu619]

The dojo atmosphere was the one that I wasn't expect. Usually according to our common understanding that the traditional schools will usually take things more serious, but here it went opposite. According to your description and the video you showed, the Okinawa dojo seems more like a modern gym.😂 Those are some really interesting sharing.

[@alexzero3736]

You should watch more Karate Kid😀

[@DaleKamp]

Tropical climates like Okinawa tend to make more laid-back peoples all around the world, so that could've been a factor too.

[@deus_ex_machina_]

​@@DaleKamp Really interesting hypothesis, as an Indian I can vouch for the callous attitude (myself included) towards punctuality…

[@BosunM8James]

I wish my sensei could've seen this video. He obviously adhered to the traditional way of Okinawan karate. I can't tell you how many times he would tell me my stances didn't need to be so low, that it wasn't practical. Well done Jesse, I enjoy all your videos about karate.

[@michaelrizzo5523]

I think that was the most thorough and concise explanation of the differences I've heard yet. Well done!

[@RipenedKarma]

Jesse, I just want to let you know how much I appreciate you giving history lessons about karate as opposed to only teaching it. This helps me understand and respect it so much more than ever before. This is absolutely fascinating!

[@geraldaitken478]

All Jesse's videos reflect an awesome depth of understanding on his part. I learn SO MUCH every time I watch one.

[@sony3127]

Our dojo has been fortunate to learn the Okinawan ways and history from Hanshi Tetsuhiro Hokama. His museum to karate in Okinawa is a treasure. It is wonderful to witness and connect with others who have the same passion for the history and teachings that go beyond punches and kicks! :)

[@Pardogad]

I've been teaching piano for 18 years and I know well the value and superiority of teaching a single disciple at the time. That is the way

[@elijasuiters9932]

There's also American karate. Instead of a towel and a stick there's a mullet and a mustache.

[@guardian7keys]

Good ol' fashion American karatea And no, that's not a typo

[@kevinshasteen5682]

Dont forget the parachute pance

[@red2lucas]

HAHAHA So good

[@peposo7]

sounds last century.

[@declanroberts8934]

@@thea.r.c.1914 I can assure you every other country in the world disagrees...

[@tedankhamenbonnah4848]

"Japanese karate is less about self-protection and more about self-perfection." Jesse, this is a 名言 (meigen, wise word) that all karateka should know. Thanks for this - I saw this in my 5 years in a Kyushu dojo and 2 trips to Okinawa, where people called my karate 大和空手 (Yamato karate, or Japan Karate). Any chance of you doing a video on 武芸 (bugei, or karate with musical accompaniment?

[@brucelee3842]

How Bruce Lee Said: Under the sky there just one big family . But everyone is different. 🥊🥋👍

[@operaanimelover369]

For me, the greatest takeaway from both Japanese and Okinawan Karate is the importance of discipline, dedication, self-respect, confidence, positive attitude, brother- and sisterhood, respect, responsibility, community, self-awareness, and adaptability to any situation. I commend you for covering this topic, Jesse, for I feel a lot more enlightened than ever before.

[@58jharris]

Didn't the Japanese also remove the grappling aspects of Karate because they felt that was the area Judo covered?

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Yup!

[@teleguy5699]

My Sensei used to incorporate it though. We had a small class.

[@spockvskhan4561]

Most Shodan's in karate should have a good background in Judo! It makes no sense to have a high rank in Okinawan/Japanese karate and no clue about judo.

[@spockvskhan4561]

@Michael Terrell II Thanks!!!

[@carlcanmore2658]

@@KARATEbyJesse Not entirely true, although Shotokan is primarily striking, there is a bit of grasping & grabbing if you look closely at some katas.

[@marcussomerville2593]

Jessie is an amazing example of real martial arts and a fantastic ambassador for all fighting arts/sports.

[@tomdunn541]

This was fabulous and I was having flashbacks to my dojo’s in both Okinawa and Tokyo. You’re so spot on about how mainland dojo’s are run like the military while the Okinawan dojo’s are much more carefree. I too am a lazy bastard and prefer the Okinawan dojo’s!

[@gw1357]

This is one of the best, most well thought out videos on martial arts youtube. I've watched it like four times and I get something new out of it every time. I'm not a karate practitioner, but this was the video that made me start paying attention to Jesse's channel. Now I've watched a huge amount of his content. Really great stuff -- accessible, but never dumbed down.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Thank you!

[@bradfoland2127]

Love your knowledge, understanding of history and most of all your likable, endearing style of presentation. Keep it up! Because of you I now have a more favorable respect of Karate

[@ESLTeacherTom]

Very nice, thank you for sharing.

[@leonpiko628]

Sarcastic. cool

[@Ordinary_Red]

You sound like my Sunday school teacher 🤣🤣🤣

[@CalvinLimuel]

3:19 it's so much of a lifestyle even the cats train Karate

[@patrikhjorth3291]

Plot twist: the cat is actually the sensei.

[@zakaro-899]

@@patrikhjorth3291 nice one

[@kelvinini]

catrate

[@zakaro-899]

@@kelvinini nice one too

[@belalabusultan5911]

the cat is a challenger from the (fline paw claw fist) school.

[@RRRRRAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH]

from what I'm seeing, there is overlap in how the Japanese "sportified" the practical Okinawan karate with how political situations in China sportified practical Kung Fu into contemporary wushu. Your descriptions of Okinawan practices and concepts sound much more similar to the Kung Fu roots from which it came! Respect. keep up the great videos!

[@jasonmages4323]

The educational value and historical contributions really seal the deal, combine that with the Charismatic and Humble nature of Jesse Enkamp and his fanbase is going to increase exponentially over time. The collaboration videos are the best for broadening those demographics for viewer relatability.

[@plaindrifter2189]

This video is really an invaluable source of information. As I was never happy with sports based Karate, it clearly informed me that Okinawan Karate is indeed the Karate I've been searching for.

[@FinneyRaju]

Just started Goju-Ryu karate yesterday!

[@heavymeddle28]

Congratulations. The hardest belt to get is the white. To actually take the step to begin😊

[@locke103]

i've been lazy about training over the years. how're you liking it so far?

[@FinneyRaju]

locke103 it’s been challenging. Just facing my feet slightly inward is awkward, and executing the katas are difficult for me since I have zero coordination, but after two weeks of practice I’m able to complete a kata. I do wish I started training 20 years ago, but better late than never. My sensei is easy going about it so I don’t mind, and I love meditation, so I enjoy it. My favorite part of it is actually that my dojo emphasizes weight lifting (using the traditional tools) as part of regular training. My sensei told me that every day I come to class, I should (1) warm up, (2) practice kata, and (3) lift weights.

[@locke103]

@@FinneyRaju I feel the same way myself, wish I started when I was younger. Before I became such a heavy smoker, a diabetic and dealing with a skrew of mental issues that one way or another work against me. I know I'm just making excuses at this rate, but I digress.

[@OriginalNortad]

Finney, congratulations. That was my technique when I started almost 28 years ago. Its very strong technique, very efective, i hope you come to love it like I do. I wish much sucess, and i wish you find senseis and collegues that make you feel welcomed, appreciated and motivated.

[@jeffainsworth362]

I trained in Isshinryu Karate for some years. I use my bo as my walking stick, you never know when it may come in handy.

[@lordkaicer]

I also trained Isshinryu karate until blue belt. I like it a lot many simplified techniques that comes from the Okinawan te. Tatsuo Shimabuku was an interesting man when he create the Isshinryu.

[@michaelyork7844]

I am presently in the original American karate system founded by Ernest lieb from Germany not all these so named American karate styles/dojo's.Its a combination of most effective movements from different styles (as alot are) goju ryu is a main foundation point and I seem to like a part of it.Well my sensi teaches the bo form of isshinryu taught by his instructor the exact way he learned it many years ago and he's like 7 dan I'm in SC

[@LanceABoyle]

I study Ba Gua. We use a tapered staff. I would walk to class with it. I felt like I was in Lord of the Rings.

[@melisslacour15]

This is so interesting! The style I was taught is advertised as okinowan but we really are a mishmash of japanese and okinawan! This makes so much more sense now

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Thanks Melissa-san!

[@mikeilkenhons8896]

Master Enkamp: This was very interesting to know more about why our Master Fyock always talked about the practical application of our katas. We had fellow students who studied Japanese styles. The “style” he taught was directly tied to Okinawa. His teacher was Master Koepel who studied in Okinawa under the last descendent of Master Matsa Muro Seito. Our normal lesson times were learning katas and their application. We had a special guest, Master Patrick McCarthy who spent twenty five years in Asia interviewing and asking all the old masters about the hidden bonchai. He rewrote the ancient and lost book “The Bubishi”. As a lower belt, I was not invited to this Master Class. My son was.

[@Hedron-Design]

I trained two years Shoto Kan then three years Tang soo do. When I moved too Missouri and met Seiyu Oyata and started training there it made all my other stuff look silly. Every other place would never teach me a weapon unless I was FIRST a black belt. Oyata made me learn a weapon for my first test. (Also belts were started when Karate went to Japan and it became a thing in schools. Before that it wasn't a strict belt rank system). He was from Okinawa (the Ryu kyu islands and almost always called it Ryu Kyu instead of Okinawa) and told me that I needed to be able to use a weapon because my opponents would have them on the street. He taught me several super easy knock outs and Tuite (tuidi) techniques and it was amazing to me. It was fun to go to the standard tournaments and see his teenage students more comfortable using weapons than the other schools high level students. Because the teenager that was not a black belt had been using the weapon for over a year and the other school's black belt had only been using it for a few weeks or months lol. We also learned how to apply EVERY movement we learned in Kata to a real life situation. We were encouraged to expand and find the different applications not just one single strict move. I miss him because he is now passed away but his training made me spoiled. When you have had training like his it is hard to go to a lesser experience. Everything he taught had application and non of it was flashy, just effective. As a junior student I was able to teach "advanced" students of other Dojo's in the area. I even once had a "black belt" grab my arm out of anger and a simple Tuite technique put that man on the ground. Nothing special just a very basic technique that anyone could do.

[@messey12]

Looking at this vid, I'd say my training in Shito-Ryu over the years has a pretty good balance of Okinawan and Japanese traits. Though I do identify more with the Okinawan karate mentality.

[@messey12]

@Miguel Cruz mora Shihan Demura is my late Sensei's Sensei as well :) Shihan Demura is one darn impressive human being, that's for sure.

[@EnglishLab365]

I have been practicing SHito Ryu for the last 6 months.

[@terrysyuen6566]

I was originally from Hong Kong to USA for 16 years now. I also practiced Shitoryu in Hong Kong. My Sensei also focused on traditional karate and competitive karate. Thus I like both. I also trained in Osaka with Shitoryu 3rd Soke. He is also focusing more the traditional karate training than the sport karate training. I am currently training Hayashi ha Shitoryu now.

[@kaitohaimaru3574]

The use of "chi ishi" is the similar with how kalaripayattu practitioners train. The tool is called "gadha." It functions as a weapon too.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Yes in modern functional fitness gyms it’s called ”Indian Club” 👍

[@kaitohaimaru3574]

@@KARATEbyJesse Wow. I really learn a lot from your channel!

[@junichiroyamashita]

Yeah,it really reminded me of the Clubbell and club exercises. Heard they are reallu effective.

[@stuart5811]

@@KARATEbyJesse the wooden Indian clubs are great for functional strength

[@michaelhansen2818]

With everything you've described, I would definitely prefer old school Okinawa Karate.

[@adamwinters4448]

Uechi ryu has been a major part of life since the 90s..Okinawan karate truly does keep me happy

[@hwi62]

Your videos are quickly approaching world class tutorials. You manage to demystify karate, without ever devaluate or disrespect other perceptions. Absolutely wold class.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Thanks for your kind words 🙏

[@marktalbot417]

Another amazingly interesting video Jesse-San. I’m finding it difficult to get motivated to train at home during the pandemic restrictions, but your videos always give me the boost I need to get up and do some. Thank you so much. Hai !

[@prettymotaung6178]

KAPAN VS OKINAWA

[@h1a8]

Mr Myagi stomped all the karate masters (whose style was japanese).

[@trospeATH]

Cobrai Kai style is called Tang Soo Do and it is korean

[@FoxyAndCraig]

I spent 13 years in Okinawa and loved the training there. Interesting I agree with everything except number 10. I found in Okinawa we were on time and it was structured more than you mention. However that was what we required. Excellent review of the differences and I could not have said it better myself! Craig

[@AkaAka_AkaAka]

LOVE this... I'm not a practitioner of Karate but I am a folkstyle wrestler with massive respect for martial artists of all kinds. Thanks for sharing and helping keep the martial arts real.

[@RaffaeleGrandi]

What a big and extremly deep connection in what you have said about Okinawa karate and what I've learnt in my life about traditional kungfu. A very appreciated video (along with all the others on karate that I am gradually watching). Thanks for posting. Best

[@sony3127]

In our system of Gōjū-ryū, kyu belts train mostly Japanese kata, vocabulary, techniques, and culture. Once a student earns thier Shodan, they start learning Okinawan versions of kata, bunkai, vocab, kobudo, etc. I have really enjoyed the approach as I feel it has given me a broader and more balanced exposure while also keeping the training challenging and engaging.

[@cowlico]

"That's why it's so good for a lazy bastard like me that's never on time." Best comment ever!!

[@micaelaestrella7290]

Those who think kobudo is impractical must have never tried to hit their brother with a broom.

[@methandtopology]

I was the youngest brother and can confirm, I have faced many tools

[@davidgarciacooke337]

I am 48 and decided to give Goju Ryu a go. I think it is just up my street. I have found a dojo 15 minutes drive from where I live. Haven't practiced any martial arts for the past 20 years. I am so excited. All your videos have inspired me to look into karate.

[@kofiobodaitetteh8226]

For someone who started with Shotokan 30yrs ago and now mainly combative and judo, this was very informative. Thanks Jesse

[@kenvng]

Wow, I love it. Every informative and detailed. Nicely done Jesse. Honestly, I am more of a Kung Fu guy but I have always love Martial Arts. I grew up in SE Asia and in a family full of Martial Art Practitioners (Uncle Kungfu, Cousins are Karate, Taekwondo, Judo and so). Each has his or her favorite art. As for me, being in a melting pot of Martial Arts really help me being more open minded and diverse. I love Kung Fu because of its wide circular and spectacular moves but in practical you cant self defend with wide spread moves like that. So in self defend you just basically applied what you learned and shorten them to the extend that it fits to help you get out of a tight situation. Thank you for the great video. Love it.

[@Foltore]

Man, i love your stuff! Hope someday we will meet,i really want to learn, talk and practice with you.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Much apprecited 🙏

[@TheDrexxus]

I prefer American Karate, where you train with movie music montages and just pay a lot of money to upgrade your belt colors. :)

[@alexcooper9149]

My mom and grandma are from Okinawa, and while they never did Karate I really enjoyed this video as sort of a look at some of my cultural heritage. Nice one Jesse!

[@ditchdairy6888]

I really enjoyed watching this and learning about the great Okinawan way/lifestyle from the cradle of Karate. Thanks for posting this Jesse!

[@Sports_Martialart]

Discipline and dedication is the key root to proper karate.. oss

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Essential elements of excellence 💪

[@konstantinvikhrov3998]

Loved it, when you said "lazy bastards, like me". That's evidence of your humbleness! :)

[@steve5825]

Agreed, made me laugh because the dedication and discipline needed to train in any martial art is not something a ‘lazy bastard’ would cope with.

[@YoumaycallmeLando]

I swear, you keep amazing me with your knowledge on Karate, every time! Keep it up!!!

[@nelsonmcatee3721]

The result of having an inquisitive mind.

[@Zatracenec]

I can imagine, how someone like You can easily make people to start practicing of Okinawan Karate or other martial art. It is all explained so well and with such a passion, one can´t resist to think about starting hiw own way of martial arts.

[@warddeaton6933]

As someone who has trained 13 years in ITF style TKD, much closer to Karate, than WTF style, let my tell you, your videos are amazing, and are really inspiring me to take up the lifestyle again.

[@86zerueldososo64]

05:24 Jackie Chan has been trying to teach this to us all along. We were blind.

[@hardiknaruka3067]

Sensei I will chose Okinawan karate because it teaches us the deep karate techniques and help us to understand thing better as it takes 12-15 students HAI

[@aSmelly1]

That's all the stuff we're taught in my traditional Goju ryu dojo! Loved seeing this video :) shi ishi and ishisashi are my life

[@doctorfreitas]

Awasome!!! Thanks from Spain. I have been practicing Japanese Karate during 15 years, but then I knew Okinawan Karate, and now is part of my life. But I love both, Japanese and Okinawan Karate. Thanks again, your teachings are very good and easy to follow.

[@andrevanzyl4852]

Hai Jesse Sensei! First of all - thank you very much for your contribution, education, motivation and service to people around the globe, who don't have the privilege to experience the things that you do. Secondly, I would like to confirm the information given in this video. I originally got my Shodan in Shotokan. I stopped my karate path for many years and when I returned as an elderly person, I have joined a Traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu Dojo. I found many similarities, but also many differences between the arts. I tend to believe that Okinawan karate is much more of a martial art that the sport driven Japanese styles. Please keep up you great work. I will stay a fan...

[@adrianbullecer5749]

European Karate??? how is that possible? "yes milord!" instead of Osu

[@Nahelus]

@@justafloridamanfromthe75thRR No, there is also Australia, see ya!

[@Darkmattersfrank]

American Karate??? "Hell ya bro dude!"

[@magebazulu5583]

😃😃😁"yes milord"

[@pracylopgonzer3176]

@@Darkmattersfrank “I’m hip to some dojo dunking dude”

[@fromlilly]

European karate? Mission impossible.

[@williamsmith8790]

Okinawan karate is much closer in relation to Kung fu, and more like “family systems” and are taught in a more relaxed and one on one manner. Japanese systems seem to have very strict curriculums and were taught in their public schools en masse to large classes.

[@kempo79]

I disagree. As you can see in Jesse's videos from China, it's even hard to find kung-fu style that actually resembles karate. Not to mention kung-fu devolved into show-off art and has no use in real combat, when karate (especially okinawan or practiced by MMA fighters) is very effective both in sport AND in self-defence.

[@williamsmith8790]

BartTP Most good Kung fu guys in mainland China were snuffed out in the cultural revolution. The Chinese govt promotes what it is calling the Shaolin temple as a Disney-like attraction. “Wushu” is more of a artistic gymnastics. You need to go to Taiwan to still see Kung fu practiced as a fighting martial art. I’ve done Kung fu and Goju and the similarities are more than the differences.

[@Supermomo2007]

@@kempo79 karate?? they use muay thai and kickboxing, there is no karate in mma. karate with their kata tournament is bext example as show off art

[@kempo79]

@@Supermomo2007 not true. Even Jesse's brother uses karate. I don't want to even mention Machida here.

[@Supermomo2007]

@@kempo79 so you think hung gar, choy lee fut and ving tsun are more effective than any karate style

[@Domzdream]

The 'atifa' I can only assume that the Muay Thai people use it pretty much throughout their entire style. They follow through with every technique. I guess that is atifa.

[@vincentestrade1283]

Probably the best and most honest and clear karate video I've seen in years! Thank you so much for doing this! I would love to study Okinawan karate!

[@IamnotJohnFord]

I studied Ryu-Te from a sensei that studied directly under the founder, Okinawan Taika Seiyu Oyata. I met the founder a few times for belt testing. I haven't practiced for some time. But, from time to time something happens and the basics of the movements and techniques come back to me. Ryu-Te and Maui Thai, in my opinion, are great self defense styles.

[@falconeshield]

Who's here after binging Cobra Kai?

[@DM-ox6mk]

Obrigado por disponibilizar em português. Eu tinha uma ideia errada sobre karatê. Vivendo e aprendendo.

[@ReviveHF]

Probably the lower stances of Japanese Karate was influenced more by Hung Kuen and perhaps Ba Ji Quan, while the Okinawan were influenced more by White Crane and incense Shop fist?

[@KARATEbyJesse]

I think it was more of a ”let’s turn it into physical exercise” development

[@trainingnotes4793]

Until I met you on KZbin I had no idea the The Ancient Art was still alive. Im so excited to hear this!!! I would like to go to Okinawan someday and train. Thanks for this insightful video. All the best for the future!

[@earlhernandez1395]

I simultaneously studied Shobayashi Shorin Ryu, under Eizo Shimabuku in Camp Hansen, and Kyokushinkai under Shirata Sensei in Kin Cho in 1993. I always thought that Shorin Ryu was soft, especially during Kumite - so I focused on Kyokushinkai. Fast forward 25 years later after studying Filipino, Korean, Thai, Chinese, and military combatives, I realized that “softness/relaxation” is the end result of wisdom and knowledge, gained from years years of experience in martial arts.

[@slickperspective2745]

As a kid, I always thought the founder of Karate was Ryu in Street Fighter.

[@goldeneagle3608]

Jesse, you should make a video on Tang Soo-Do. It is, in my eyes, just a Korean version of Shotokan. It would be interesting to see you talk about its history and maybe some comparisons to Japanese Shotokan. Thanks!

[@orencio1969]

Bro, I just told another TKD guy about this.

[@alexei456]

I'm not even a fan or a Karate nerd (bear with me, Igrew up doing TKD - WTF Style) but I do love your videos because you take the time to look into the history, differences and practical uses of the art itself, I beleive everyone should do that. In other news, now I demand a video about Korean Karate, lol JK.

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Will do!

[@alexei456]

@@KARATEbyJesse You'd be thrilled and tormented to see how hard it is to find information regarding the roots of TKD itself (in summary, japanese ocupation, ww2, then Korean war, then inner struggles for political power and popularization of the art basically destroyed any solid proof of native Korean martail arts) but if I had to give my opinion (just a regular human opinion, I'm no expert) the closest you can get to Korean Karate nowadays would be ITF TKD, I've seen people even suggest that Karate adopted and adapted many of the TKD style kicks during these periods, while TKD adopted the Katas system which I wouldn't consider so crazy given how throught history martial arts have been learning from each other, lol

[@nytrodralyg1860]

@@KARATEbyJesse please do, because apparently General Choi Hong Hi (creator of TKD) has never learned the functional applications of Shotokan Kata when creating the forms in TKD. He clearly describes all techniques in the forms as blocks and strikes and also e.g. the Hikite as something used for power generation.

[@Hy-jg8ow]

I trained in ITF Taekwon-do, so I am interested as well, esp that we even had strength conditioning and self-defense based both on Choi's system and older Korean styles like taekkyeon.

[@alexei456]

@@nytrodralyg1860 Curious that you mention specifically Shotokan, I didn't want to say it as I am no expert in Karate Nor TKD, but whenever i look at really old TKD training footage and how Shotokan Karate moves and work, I see a lot of similarities (this could have happened during the japanese occupation, all forms of non japanese martial arts were forbidden and even penalized with death, so many "TKD" (TKD was not yet a Unified term) masters just blended in with karate.

[@levismith8423]

I thought I had an inkling about karate until I started watching these videos. They are so enlightening. Jesse's concise and relatable style of storytelling is wonderful

[@KARATEbyJesse]

Thank you!!

[@brandonmonita7290]

As cliché as this will sound, I was taught by my grandfather who had a dojo over in San Antonio. He would adapt to each class as needed, but when my brother and I came along pretty much everyone else thought he was just favoring us. Not true let me tell you when his second would teach the others. Grandpa would come over and practically beat the crap out of us, almost made us leave. When the other students saw this, things changed. The classes focused more of the focus of form and power, but my brother and I were taught to “punch through our opponents, utilize every joint, and puncture every weakness. Within your body just as well your mind.” Conclusion they taught everybody else how to stand and taught the both of us how to clear the field for they to stand in. He was… a very demanding teacher, as much as a very fun grandpa. 😁 Okinawan karate is NOT taught as rough as it used to be. 😅

[@gbormann71]

I have time management issues too. I should've followed my high school friends to the Goju Ryu dojo instead of the local JKA Shotokan dojo 🤣🤣

[@gbormann71]

By the way, I need to add that "should've" refers to the mid '80s 🤣🤣

[@ethancharlessavage]

Nice to see Shimizu-san in there. I trained with him for a summer at Kyoto Sangyo University.

[@KrystalNCMA]

My biggest fear of studying karate is that I can not sit on my lower legs in a kneeling position or my knee will lock and I am in excruciating pain, it would be my biggest limitation.

[@shiro182]

It takes practice but eventually you can. I stopped karate 10yrs ago but can still sit like that something I could never do before.

[@jamieoneal7120]

I've never been interested in actually taking karate....then I started watching the Karate Nerd and I'm hooked.

[@familydenhaag9860]

Chinkuchi is locking of the joints, as Master Morio Higaona, one of the most qualified persons on earth now to comment " “Chunkuchi is used to describe the tension or stability of the joints in the body for a firm stance, a powerful punch, or a strong block. For example, when punching or blocking, the joints of the body are momentarily locked for an instant and concentration is focused on the point of contact; the stance is made firm by locking the joints of the lower body - the ankles, the knees and the hips - and by gripping the floor with the feet. Thus a rapid free-flowing movement is suddenly checked for an instant, on striking or blocking, as power is transferred or absorbed. Then the tension is released immediately in order to prepare for the next movement"