Karate techniques are similar in most styles. It is the system in which they are taught, that identifies a style. As with all teaching systems, a syllabus is important. Funakoshi Ryu has a structured, sequential training system.
Incorporated into our system is the science of kinetics and biomechanics. Kinetics is the study of the forces that produce, arrest or modify the motions of the body. Kinetics is the application of Newton's first and third law of inertia to body dynamics. In exercise and sport, biomechanics a subdivision of dynamics dealing with the study of the forces causing or tending to cause changes at which reactions proceed.
The central starting point or foundation of Funakoshi Ryu, is our 'Kamae' stance. This kamae stance is more than a fighting position, it contains accurate head, body, arms, hands, leg, and foot positioning. This stance is a study in its self. All training techniques start from from this position.
This kamae is used in all our training systems: kion, saiten kentai waza, shiho geri waza, kata and kumite. Many styles have now copied this kamae and yet it is not in their kion and kata. This stance is an aggressive and defensive position. One could say this stance identifies Funakoshi Ryu.
In 1966 Funakoshi Ryu introduced to the karate world our unique junior karate ranking system. All junior ranks wear a white stripe through their belts, and the awarding of junior black belts, also with a white stripe through the belt. Funakoshi Ryu has excellent training systems, with great emphasis placed on the detail and perfection, of all kion techniques. Our unique advanced black belt training syllabus caters for the advancement of karateka through the higher dan rankings.
Funakoshi Ryu is an on-going style, always looking to improve and advance with new systems and techniques. The method used to train an athlete 50 years ago, cannot be compared to the methods taught today. Funakoshi Kobudo International teaches weapon training to students wishing to practise the disciplines of Bushido weaponry. Edwin Ward Dai Hanshi has studied a variety of weapons and has developed systems of teaching these weapons, unique to Funakoshi Karate International students.