Okinawan Shogen-Ryu Karate-Do is the creation of Taba Kensei, Hanshi, 10th dan. It is the product of his more than 60 years of training in Karate-Do under such great Karate-Do Masters as Shoshin Nagamine, Hohan Soken and Chosin Chibana. Shogen-Ryu Karate-Do is not another branch or organization of Matsubayashi-Ryu or any other style. It is unique. We are dedicated students of Taba Sensei that wish
to continue to spread his amazing style of Okinawan Karate-Do. Techniques are performed in a manner that results in the greatest speed and power possible without causing injury or harm to the person performing them. Key aspects to Shogen-Ryu Karate-Do are the use of natural movements, efficiency of movement, a relaxed body and most importantly, the use of koshi, the combination of the hips and low back, when performing techniques. While many people talk about the importance of "koshi" to get maximum power, few truly understand the anatomy and biomechanical principles to effectively use it. It is not an exaggerated movement of the hips, but a small and often imperceivable "snap" which provides incredible power to technique. Taba Sensei had an unquestionable understanding of koshi and incorporated it into his Shogen-Ryu Karate-Do. The result is a perfect blending of tradition and science which is carried on by Maeda Sensei and his students.
