Isshinryu Karate and Modern Arnis.....Practical Self Defense for a Modern Society
Martial artists today are often thought of as falling into two categories,
modern or traditional. Perhaps some of the differences between the two
are not as great as they seem if we consider the times and circumstances
when the martial arts evolved. Isshinryu karate and Arnis de mano
both developed in violent societies with strong cultural traditions. For
survival today as well it is necessary to have a strong foundation based
on tradition while at the same time expanding from what Master Wilson
refers to as the "comfort zone " into training that prepares one for
modern street reality. The masters who developed the arts we practice
were very much aware of this; they lived in a society where ignoring reality
was not an option. Self defense was part of every day life. The sad truth
is that the society we live in is becoming more violent. It is to our advantage
to learn to adapt.
When weapons were banned in Okinawa, martial artists adapted by learning
to defend themselves with the tools they used in everyday life. They didn't
practice with the rokushokubo because it was a tradition, but because it was
a tool they had at hand every day. The same for the sai and the tonfa,
perhaps with a few modifications. In the Philippines, or any country coverd
largely with rainforest, the bolo or machete is a constant companion. When
the Spanish conquistidors restricted the use of blades the stick became the
weapon of choice. The stick, or more correctly the cane, is also a training
tool. Basic principles of attack and movement are practiced which can easily
be translated to other weapons or the empty hands. If we observe the art of
Modern Arnis closely, we see many of the same movements we are familiar
with in Isshinryu. Short linear attacks and tight circular blocks or parries
are characterisic of both arts. Straight, relatively close stances, low kicks,
and fighting on angles are present in both arts. For the modern practitioner,
the is much more similarity than difference. It is this writers opinion that
Master Shimibuku would approve of our cross training, particularly in
Modern Arnis. Nothing I have ever heard about him suggests that he was
opposed to innovation. When he was older and at times too sick to teach
himself, a close friend who was a master of Uechi Ryu karate would fill in
for him. We see pictures of the Okinawan masters sitting together as friends,
and we should follow their example. The well-rounded martial artist will have
a strong foundation based on tradition while at the same time being open to
innovation and training based on what can be expected in the street.
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