Central Penn Karate Academy

SANCHIN
First taught kata. Training of the mind, body, and spirit. Teaching of dynamic tension and breath control. Student should be able to complete the kata while using only 10 breaths.
White belt – one green stripe

SEISAN
Kata is done in a straightforeward stance (seisan), rapidly performed techniques, using only 13 combinations with 13 breaths until completion. Pillar kata of Isshinryu.
White belt – two green stripes

SEIUNCHIN
Kata is done in long low stances, reinforced punches and blocks, uppercuts, and powerful techniques. All while using on 4 exhalations until completion.
White belt – three green stripes

NAIHANCHI
The first green belt kata is performed with swift side-to-side head movements to control balance; back and forth hand movements, with evading foot sweeps. The totality of the kata is done in one breath.
Green belt

WANSU
This kata is known for pivoting body slam, presure points, side thurst kicks, new blocks introduced, open hand strikes, groin kicks, and additional balance work.
Green belt – one brown stripe

CHINTO
Kata is performed at an angle, double jump kicking, knife fighting, and has a combination of previous katas. Additionally, new blocks are introduced with this kata.
Green belt – two brown stripes

KUSANKU
The first kata for brown belts is known for its evasive actions, low stretching punches, opern hand fighting, and hip and lower torso action.
Brown belt

KUSANKU SAI
The first weapons kata is from Tatsuo Shimabukuro himself. Use of three pointed knives in place of the fists.
Brown belt – one black stripe

BO
Second weapons kata, that introduces a staff that is the same height as the user. The user gains the understanding that the weapon is an extension of [their] body.
Brown belt – two black stripes

SUANSU
Second advanced kata from Master Tatsou Shimabukuro. This kata is a combination of all the previous open hand katas of Isshinryu. Advanced striking and blocking.
Brown belt – three black stripes

SANCHIN
Kata is considered the culmination of training. bi-direction of power, abdominal strength, and the induction of a trance as a tool.
Black belt

BUNKI KATAS
Bunki katas are advanced, open hand, “fighting” katas taught to black belts as they continue their studies within the art of Isshinryu.
Black belt – red stripes

Tournament
Students will learn the basic skills needed for tournament kumite or also known as “point sparring.” This type of sparring is controlled and stopped after “point” contact. Contact is limited to certain areas of the individual’s body and one can be disqualified for illegal hitting/kicking.

Non-tournament
Non-tournament sparring is also known as “free sparring or self-defense sparring.” This type of kumite is mostly reserved for higher ranking belts due to the control that is necessary, so as to not inflict harm/damage.

Sais
A traditional three-pronged Okinawan stabbing weapon used for stabbing and striking.

Bo
Staff weapon, that is usually the same height as the user. Can be made of many different materials (e.g., oak, bamboo) and can be tapered at the end (“toothpick”).

The bo is utilized for thrusting, swinging, and striking techniques which often resemble empty-hand movements, following the philosophy that the bō is merely an “extension of one’s limbs”.

Tonfa
Has possible origins from the millstone handle used for grinding grain. Is more modernly recognized as a “cousin” to the police baton.

Utilized in pairs and reflect “open hand” katas.

Kamas
A traditional farming sickle (rice farming) and is one of the hardest weapons to learn due to the inherent danger it pocesses.

*Not an official part of the Isshinryu karate ranking system.

Nunchacku
These weapons are easily recongized by their two wooden (or other modern materials) that are linked together by chains.

Original Okinawan nunchakus are octagonal, and were linked by horse hair.

*Not an official part of the Isshinryu karate ranking system.

Women’s Self-Defense
These seminars are usually offered in conjunction with the area/township police department, local YWCA (or women’s shelter/support team), and the county’s District Attorneys Office.

Classes and skills are tailored specifically for females and likely situations that a female could encounter.

Healthcare De-escalation/Self-Defense
More information coming soon on these classes/seminars!

Law Enforcement De-escalation/Self-Defense
These classes and training sessions are specially arranged through the head instructor, as specialized agrangments and grants are usually necessary.

Classes/techniques that are taught by the instructors are MOPEC approved.

West Shore YMCA
There is a cost associated with these classes. Please check-out their website for more information:

https://ymcaharrisburg.org/home/programs/youth/youth-sports/martial-arts/
Tuesday: 6pm-7:30pm Friday: 6pm-7:30pm

Camp Curtain YMCA
There is a cost associated with these classes for non-YMCA members. These are kid/teen classes only!

Please inquire with the Harrisburg/Camp Curtain YMCA for more information.
Monday: 6:00pm-7:00pm Wednesday: 6:00pm-7:00pm