Isshin-ryū (meaning "One Heart Way") is a system of Okinawan karate founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku on January 15, 1956. It synthesizes traditional Shōrin-ryū, Gōjū-ryū, and Okinawan weapons (Kobudō). The style is defined by its signature vertical punch, natural stances, and low-target snapping kicks. Our lineage comes directly from the founder through Hanshi Michael Calandra and his student, our instructor, Sensei Jess Engleking.