Our Training

Rediscovering The Old Way (上地流旧式): The Core of Uechi-Ryu Oryukai

At Uechi-Ryu Oryukai, our mission is to reconnect with the very essence of Uechi-Ryu as it was taught in the 1950s by masters Kanei Uechi and Ryuko Tomoyose. This approach, known as The Old Way, was faithfully transmitted by George Mattson to our teacher, Lionel Reynaud. It emphasizes the deep and often-forgotten roots of our martial art.

Ryuko Tomyose (George Mattson’s teacher)

A Practice Rooted in Tradition

Old Katas: To understand our art, we must return to its origins. This is why we study the original versions of foundational katas such as Kanshiwa, Dai Ni Seisan, Seisan, and Sanseiryu.

Levels of Practice: A kata is not just a sequence of movements. We explore each form through four distinct levels of practice, focusing on energy, body connection, and timing to reveal its full depth.

Developing Strength and Mastery

Kumite: To help you apply what you learn, we place great importance on Kumite (sparring) work. The goal is to improve your dynamic movement and master the alternation between fluidity and firmness. Specific sessions are offered for our online members, and regular gatherings allow us to deepen our two-person training.

Physical Conditioning: Our practice is characterized by short-distance techniques, so physical conditioning is essential. We combine ancient and modern methods, including Circuit Training, to build a strong body ready for action.

Lionel Reynaud (Uechi-ryu Oryukai) with Darin Yee (IUKF)

The Legacy of the 5 Animals of Fujian Kung Fu

While the totemic animals of Uechi-Ryu are the Tiger, the Dragon, and the White Crane, we recognize the influence of the other two animals of Fujian Kung Fu: the Serpent and the Leopard. Our martial art is a synthesis of the qualities embodied by these five animals:

  • The Tiger (Hu Quan): Symbolizes brute physical strength and powerful attacks.
  • The Leopard (Bao Quan): Represents speed, agility, and ferocity.
  • The Dragon (Long Quan): Embodies internal power, fluidity, and suppleness.
  • The Snake (She Quan): Focuses on sinuous movements and precise strikes to pressure points.
  • The Crane (He Quan): Characterized by elegance, evasion, and attacks on pressure points.

By integrating these principles into our training, we don’t just reproduce movements; we strive to embody the qualities that make them effective.

SCMAA