Okinawa-Te

Function over form

At Ocean State Okinawa-Te, we teach martial arts the way that they were designed from their inception; that Self Defense is paramount. We utilize the century old teachings of the original Okinawan masters, combined with contemporary self defense techniques/tactics which provides our students (both young and older) with a well balanced discipline.

  We focus our training with the practical use of our techniques/tactics,  while also stressing the importance of athleticism, flexibility and body conditioning. Some of, but not all, the benefits of training at Ocean State Okinawa-Te are the developments of both mental and physical discipline. Additionally, the development of faster hand-eye coordination, balance, an increase in physical strength and flexibility. These all lead to our students having a greater confidence and self worth.

Plus it’s incredibly fun.

Self Defense Hours:

Family Classes on Tuesday and Thursdays starting at 5:30pm

Adult Classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 7pm

Okinawa-Te History

Okinawa-Te, the original form of karate, is deeply rooted in the martial traditions of Okinawa, Japan. Unlike the sport-oriented versions of karate practiced today, Okinawa-Te emphasizes practical and effective self-defense techniques designed for real-world combat. This ancient martial art incorporates a range of striking methods, including eye gouges, pressure point attacks, and devastating kicks to vulnerable areas. The primary focus of Okinawa-Te is to disable an opponent quickly and efficiently, reflecting its origins as a system developed for survival and protection.

In the 1400s, Okinawa unified to form the Ryukyu Kingdom which had extensive trade and diplomatic relations with China, particularly the Fujian province. This relationship facilitated a cultural exchange that included martial arts techniques and philosophies. Okinawan martial artists that had experience with indigenous fighting techniques were exposed to various forms of Chinese martial arts (Fujian White Crane, Five Ancestors Fist, and other Southern Chinese styles) known as Tōde (Chinese Hand).

Centuries passed and during the 1800s, Okinawa-Te had developed in three different villages — Naha, Shuri, and Tomari. The styles were named Naha-te, Shuri-te, and Tomari-te, respectively. These three styles of Okinawan Martial Arts are the backbone of all the different styles of karate practiced today like Shotokan, Goju-ryu, Shorin-ryu, Wado-ryu, Uechi-ryu, etc. Which makes Okinawa-Te the original form of modern karate (Empty Hand).

Okinawa-Te techniques are characterized by their raw power and directness, its high stances are designed for close quarter combat making it one of the most formidable forms of martial arts. Today, practitioners of Okinawa-Te emphasize function over form and cater to their individual body type. The techniques will grow with practitioners as they age making it an always useful self defense art. This original form of karate serves not only as a means of self-defense but also as a connection to the rich cultural heritage of Okinawa. Follow in the footsteps of Anko Itosu and Motobu Choki, and learn how to apply Okinawa-Te to your daily routine – view our programs below.