Okinawa, an island in Japan, played a significant role in the history of Japanese martial arts. During the Ryukyu Kingdom period (1429-1879), Okinawa was a vital hub for trade and cultural exchange. Martial arts knowledge was among the valuable information exchanged, shaping Okinawa’s unique fighting style. Intriguingly, a ban on weapons by Satsuma domain in 1609 resulted in the development of unarmed combat techniques, eventually giving birth to Karate. The term ‘Karate’ means ’empty hand’ in Japanese, reflecting its roots in Okinawa’s historical struggle. Nonetheless, Okinawa continues to contribute to the martial arts world, preserving its rich history and culture.
A Journey Through Karate History with Jesse Enkamp
In his video “KARATE NERD IN OKINAWA | Season 1 (Ep. 7) — Uechi Ryu w/ Shinjo Kiyohide (9th dan)” uploaded on 2017-01-20, Jesse Enkamp, also known as The Karate Nerd, takes viewers on an intimate exploration of traditional Okinawan Karate and Kobudo’s history, philosophy, culture, and knowledge. The video, which has garnered 99,155 views as of writing, is a rich journey through time, showcasing the roots and evolution of Karate.
The over thirteen minutes long video features Kiyohide Shinjo, a 9th Dan in Uechi Ryu, and takes viewers through rigorous training sessions, explaining the techniques and philosophy behind them. Enkamp’s palpable passion for Karate shines through as he indulges in techniques, shares interesting trivia about the origin of certain practices, and discusses the potential influence of samurai warriors on the Okinawan fighting style.
Enkamp emphasizes the importance of not allowing the style to limit your Karate practice, stating, “Don’t let your style limit your karate.” He further illustrates this by sharing his experience of practicing in the Uechi Ryu style, despite not typically practicing this form of Karate, emphasizing the importance of learning and growing in the martial art.
Throughout the video, Enkamp maintains a sense of humor and light-heartedness while providing informative and engaging content. His journey in Okinawa offers not only an exploration of Karate and its roots but a profound cultural immersion that adds depth to the viewer’s understanding of the martial art.
To watch the video, click the following link: KARATE NERD IN OKINAWA | Season 1 (Ep. 7) — Uechi Ryu w/ Shinjo Kiyohide (9th dan).
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All About Jesse Enkamp – The Karate Nerd
Jesse Enkamp, widely known as the ‘Karate Nerd’, is a renowned 3rd-degree black belt karate practitioner, author, and educator. His passion for the martial art is palpable, offering online seminars through his website, and sharing his insights via his popular YouTube channel. He endeavors to bridge the gap between traditional karate and modern practical applications. Born into a family of karate practitioners, Jesse’s love for karate was cultivated from a young age. Today, he travels the world, spreading his knowledge and deepening his own understanding of Karate, truly living up to his nickname as the ‘Karate Nerd’.
The Power of Karate
Karate is a highly disciplined martial art that emerged from the Ryukyu Kingdom, the present-day Okinawa region. It requires precision, control, and a deep philosophical understanding. Karate is not just a means to self-defense but also a way to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. Mastery of Karate is a lifelong journey of personal growth, teaching lessons of respect, humility, focus, and persistence. It is an art that empowers practitioners, instills confidence, and fosters physical and mental health. Each movement in Karate is an embodiment of strength and grace.
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A Brief Glance at the History of Japanese Martial Arts: Okinawa’s Contribution
All 8 episodes can be found on my website: http://bit.ly/2iW7yCm
I know the katas in ueichi ryu the first one is Manchu the green belt kata the second kata is Seisan the brown belt kata. Just in case if any one was wondering
The first kata you learn Is Sanchin then Kanshiwa Next Kanshu Also Weigh in and the others I don't know because I'm only a green belt 2 stripe and is on the brown belt kata
Jesse Sensei, can i ask something?
Theres a saying "quitters never win, winners never quit", ive been thinking if its ok to quit because of issues about being bullied in our local dojo here.
People who have karate lessons at 23.59 on December the 31st: 10:20 😏
" dont let your style limit your karate" 6:47 wow…
Ooooo!! Kyohide Shinjo Sensei. The Uechi-ryu Superman. The 9th time Uechi-ryu Karate champ. His father was Seiyo Shinjo a direct student of Kanbun Uechi.
Seiyo Shinjo taught Karate from 6:00pm till 10:00pm everyday except sundays. He worked construction on the side but quit to focus more on karate. Thus subjugating himself to a life of poverty but he forged his Karate legacy from that sacrifice.
It's a shame he died so young from diabetes. Rest in Peace Seiyo Shinjo. 🙏🙏
WOW, you got to train with Shinjo? Lucky guy.
Osu
No coconuts on the trees!??!?! Why is a country so known for his deadly martial arts so intent on removing all common hazards?
Grym avsnitt 👌 Har du nån video hur man stärker underarmar? Jag har svaga underarmar och just därför gillar jag inte riktigt blockerings tekniker när vi tränar…Nu tyvärr till sista avsnitt nr8..
If you keep spouting words of great wisdom, I'm going to have to build a shrine.
Whoa this is an eye opener. A long time ago when I was in community college, I had a teacher who also a high ranking Shorin-ryu practitioner. He introduced Shorin-ryu to some students, such as myself. Most notably, I remember learning Naihanchi Shodan, but also these animal techniques! I had no idea they came from Uechi-ryu but it goes to show that this philosophy of not limiting one's karate to style purity is known. Keep up the great karate content!
Dude sweet! That is the castle where part of the karate episode of “Human Weapon” was filmed!! Dope!
"Everything hurts. But I'm super happy." That's a real karate devotee.
At the beginning of the video, why are you wearing a boat motor cover on your back??
The training is amazing love watching ❤️
You’re so lucky man, he’s a beast
You're such a nerd!!!! Love it
These clips are great iv wondered all my life about the different in schools and towns
I would give anything to train with the super man of Okinawa!
I only met Master Shinjo 1 time as a kid when he made a visit to teach at the Uechi Ryu dojo in my state here in the US. While I only met him once I have great memories of him. Kanashiwa was named after Shushiwa. Great video.
The story with the samurai….the Chinese didn't have makiwara, but they had LOTS of wooden dummies, including ones that were just basic round logs sticking out of the ground they would strike. Isn't more believable that the Okinawans took the idea of the wooden dummies (especially the basic ones seen in Southern China) and evolved that into the makiwara?
i practised many styles, few to black belt and brown belt. I was very fortunate to have grandmaster who was open-minded, he also practised many styles from serious masters. I love learning the foundation of different styles and more in-depth in others.
Sensei I 'm your big fan…🙇
Super cool!
A fantastic series, thank you!
Jesse san: idc about styles
Me: practices every style
Jesse san can you give me suggestions on how do i train? I'm a blue belt
Can you speak fluently in Japanese?
Hear hear, just had a trail lesson in an Uechiryu dojo, omg, my legs… yet… happy…
Jesse, you make me want to get involved in karate again so bad! I had about 2 years of formal training but right now i have too much time and money restraints, so for now I just train on my own.