We refer to "Okinawa Kempo Karate" as the fusion of two traditional Okinawan Karate/Kempo styles: Tamashii-Ryu (Goshinryu Kempo) and Shidokan Karate. At Kiryoku Dojo, these are taught as a single, integrated discipline. This combination offers the best possible Kempo Karate training, enabling you to protect yourself or others in a serious situation. At the same time, our training boosts self-confidence and strengthens your willpower to stand up for your beliefs and needs.
We live in a dual world—and just like Yin and Yang, we strive for balance. This means balancing hard and soft techniques, physical and energetic practice, and strengthening both body and mind. Especially in today's increasingly chaotic and uncertain times, the ability to walk your own path with absolute clarity isn't just incredibly valuable; it's essential for survival!
Training Components
• Effective Self-Defense: Practical techniques applicable in real combat situations.
• Hard and soft techniques: A balanced mix of powerful and gentle movements.
• Meditation and Energy Work: Exercises to promote mental clarity and inner peace.
• Individual support: Personalized training plans tailored to each individual's needs and goals."
Tamashii-Ryu
Tamashii-Ryu, developed by Soke Heinz W. Köhnen (10th Dan), blends traditional and modern martial arts techniques. This unique style has been recognized and honored by traditional Okinawan and Japanese martial arts schools as an authentic system. The name "Tamashii-Ryu" literally translates to "Personal Soul System."
Tamashii-Ryu is renowned for its toughness and effectiveness in real-world combat. Beyond strikes and kicks, it also incorporates ground fighting, throws, and joint locks. Simultaneously, it integrates soft energy techniques from Tai Chi, Aikido, and Aikijutsu. This system blends powerful energetic elements with physical rigor, creating a complete martial arts discipline that teaches not only diverse technical fundamentals and principles but also the mental, philosophical, and spiritual aspects of the art.
Since Soke Heinz W. Köhnen unfortunately passed away in 2024, we see it as our duty to preserve his knowledge and carry on his legacy. In our dojo, the knowledge and spirit of Soke Heinz W. Köhnen live on. His emphasis on mental strength and discipline continues to shape our training to this day.
Shidokan Karate
Shidokan Karate is known for its versatility and effectiveness in full-contact sparring. Shidokan integrates both striking and grappling techniques, combining the toughness of Kyokushin Karate with the flexibility of other martial arts styles.
At our dojo, we practice old-school Shidokan Karate as taught by Hanshi Seikichi Iha. His philosophy, "Karate is friendship and solidarity," and his emphasis on the "natural way of practicing Karate" are deeply integrated into our Okinawa Kempo Karate. These teachings significantly shape the atmosphere and spirit of our dojo.
Our roots
The founder of the dojo, Dominik Lübben, had the privilege of being trained by the late Grandmasters Soke Heinz W. Köhnen (Tamashii-Ryu) and Seikichi Iha (Shidokan). From Soke Köhnen, he received the Kayden (teaching authorization) for Tamashii-Ryu, and from Master Iha, the teachings of traditional, old-school Shidokan Karate.
Both masters left a profound mark on our dojo—their wisdom, techniques, and especially their philosophies live on in our training. We understand ourselves as guardians and carriers of their invaluable legacy.
Beyond Tamashii-Ryu and Shidokan Karate, our Okinawan Kempo Karate also incorporates elements from Shorai-Do Kempo, Wing-Tsun, and Tang-So-Do. Our master and founder, Dominik Lübben, had the privilege of training directly with the late Shorai-Do Kempo style founder, Shihan Wladimir O. Dexbach, learning the principles and philosophy of the style firsthand. Furthermore, he was able to train in Wing-Tsun with Samuel Kwok and Tang-So-Do with Grandmaster Cynthia Rothrock at seminars, integrating their knowledge into his existing expertise.
Our Approach
Here at Kiryoku Dojo, we don't prioritize sports competition. Instead, we teach original Karate as a true way of life. We certainly respect what athletes accomplish, but we distinctly separate ourselves from Karate as purely a sport. For us, Karate is more than a discipline—it's a philosophy that builds up the entire individual.
Especially in today's increasingly uncertain and chaotic world, Karate provides immense stability and truly helps build and strengthen your character. Martial arts are incredibly fascinating – you're always uncovering new aspects and insights, and there's the satisfaction of striving for a perfection you'll never quite achieve. But that constant journey closer to perfection? That's precisely what makes it so uniquely compelling.
A martial artist's journey also involves delving into culture, history, medicine, and philosophy – and the wisdom from these areas translates well into everyday life. Particularly in a system like Tamashii-Ryu, which is incredibly diverse and draws from many different elements, consistent practice, strong willpower, patience, and discipline are absolutely crucial.
Uncover the unique fusion of Tamashii-Ryu and Shidokan Karate and truly experience how Karate can empower your body, mind, and character. Schedule your free, no-obligation trial class now!
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