Itosu-kai Karate-do Australia

Karate-do Federation) on November 1st, 2017.

Itosu-Kai Karate-do Australia is the official branch of Itosu-ryu Karate-do in Australia, dedicated to preserving and promoting the ancient and honourable art of Itosu-ryu Karate-do. With over three decades of existence in Australia, the school offers both traditional Japanese karate and modern sports karate.

The style of Itosu-Kai Karate-do focuses on the mastery of kata (form), which encompasses the fundamental aspects of self-defence and sparring techniques. Practising kata not only enhances physical fitness but also fosters confidence, self-esteem, coordination, and resilience. These benefits are valuable for both younger and older practitioners alike.

At Itosu-Kai Karate-do Australia, safety and enjoyment are paramount. The highly qualified and experienced teachers ensure that classes run smoothly, providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students. It is normal to feel uncertain during your first visit, but rest assured that all members and instructors have experienced the same initial awkwardness and overwhelm. As you begin to make friends and learn the basics, you will quickly find yourself at ease.

Karate-do is not solely about physical training – it is a character-building discipline. Respect is at the core of this martial art, and Itosu-Kai Karate-do aims to instil this value in all its students. Ultimately, the development of friendships, physical fitness, and spiritual strength are indispensable in the pursuit of mastery in Itosu-ryu Karate-do. Through the practise of karate, you will unknowingly serve humanity humbly while embodying courage and compassion in the world.

Itosu-Ryu Karate-do traces its roots back to the Edo era of Japan, founded by Sensei Anko Itosu in the 19th century. Sensei Itosu reorganised the self-defence technique of “Karate-Jitsu” to make it suitable for physical education, focusing on character building and physical exercise. He also created numerous kata, including the widely practised Pinan Kata.

Sensei Kenwa Mabuni, a senior student of Sensei Itosu, learned the kata most accurately among all students and succeeded him as the style's keeper. Sensei Mabuni also studied under Sensei Kanryo Higaonna, the founder of Naha-te. He eventually founded Shito-ryu, drawing from the teachings of Itosu and Higaonna, as well as other influential karate masters under whom he had the privilege of training.

O'Sensei Ryusho Sakagami, having studied Shito-ryu under Sensei Mabuni, became the 3rd Soke of Itosu-ha in 1952. To recognise the contribution of Sensei Mabuni, he initially named his style “Shito-ryu Itosu-kai. ” However, in 1969, he officially changed the name to “Itosu-ryu” and established the organisation “Japan Karatedo Itosukai” to differentiate it from Shito-ryu.

Sensei Sadaaki Sakagami, the first son of O'Sensei Sakagami, succeeded his father in 1993, becoming the 4th Itosu-ryu Soke. He takes pride in preserving the traditional kata passed down through three generations. In recognition of his expertise, he received the 9th Dan from the Japan Karate-do Rengokai and was appointed as the Nihon Karatedo Rengokai President. As the Chairperson of the Japan Karate-do Federation Central Technical Committee, he continues to contribute to the development and promotion of karate-do.

Itosu-Kai Karate-do Australia is proud to carry on this lineage and offers opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to learn and excel in the art of Itosu-ryu Karate-do. Join us on this journey of friendship, physical fitness, and spiritual strength at Itosu-Kai Karate-do Australia.