Asheville Shuri-ryu Karate-do
About
Teaching in my recently newly expanded dojo, I have lots of space to offer. My dojo is privately owned and located on my property in the beautiful picturesque valley of Avery Creek in Arden. Easy to locate and accessible to the Asheville/Hendersonville area.
Okinawan Karate is the origin of early 'te' before it was called 'karate'. Our Shuri-ryu is a comprehensive art with locks, chokes, pressure technique, vital strikes, sweeps, reaps and throws. The art utilizes 'tuite', the Okinawan method of tendon-joint control, for immobilizing and defeating the attacker. Judo, Jui-Jutsu (formal Japanese), Aikido concepts are taught in conjunction with the karate program. Kobudo (traditional weapons art) is also taught as an extension to karate.
Taught as acomplete art, history and culture, we are separate for other karate schools wherein what we teach is effective and time-tested.
I love to see improvement in the student. Being able to affect one for a more positive life is my goal. The benefits of training with our group is beyond words. We are a family.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I introduce the student to the dojo and our procedure. Then after meeting other students, we begin with basic movement and balance. A student will learn basic blocking, at least two punching and striking technique and two kicks in the first lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I started in the martial arts at 7 years of age in 1969. Through these years I have traveled in training, teaching and competing. I have mastered out core art along with the many peripheral arts. I am 8th degree black belt and titled Kyoshi (professor master) in the arts of Shuri-ryu, Shorei-kempo, Goju-Shorei-ryu and Kobudo.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Our current rate for monthly tuition is $60.00. I offer a 20% discount for veteran and military members. Family rates are 25% for second member after first full payer and 50% for third member. A fourth member will be free!
Classes are twice weekly, 90 minutes each. Private lessons are available at $30/hour
How did you get started teaching?
Teaching and understanding the methods of teaching is part of our requirement in achieving 1st degree black belt. We begin as brown belt in assisting our instructor in teaching classes.
I taught my first solo venture for Buncombe County Parks and Recreation in 1981 at the Old Biltmore School Gym. Prior to that, I taught a mini-course program in my high school senior year.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with many students from many walks of life. My own children were students, beginning while still in the diaper, lol. On average, my youngest students start at 5 years old. I have taught folks at old as 67 years old. I have taught very skill athletes as well as most uncoordinated individuals. I teach within the individual's capabilities, including those who are confined to wheelchair. I work with autism spectrum students and those who are diagnosed ADHD. All students are capable of learning and the challenge I accept willingly to help each person to overcome their obstacles.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Our martial arts society always pulls together for family and community. I am proud to be a participating member in our organization's seminar, raising funds that will go to helping the victims of recent wildfires in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Do a little research to know the differences in karate styles. Many schools will teach 'their' version and don't have a true lineage or depth of effectiveness in their program. Those teachers who promote quickly are more interested in your money than in your true capabilities. Today's karate in many dojo is designed to be easier for entertainment to the student. Make no mistake, if you are going to be proud of rank accomplishment, it will be because you earned it through hard work and dedication.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Do I need to be promoted quickly?
Am I only interested in rank?
Am I willing to be seriously commited to learning the real applications of karate?
Is my interest in karate for sport only or am I interested in learning self-defense as well?
Am I ready for this exciting path in learning a truly great karate experience?