Penn State Karate Club

Fifty-three years ago, on January 15th, Tatsuo Shimabuku gathered his students together to announce the name of his karate style. In the years leading up to this day, Tatsuo studied under the legendary Okinawan Masters Chojun Miyagi, Chotoku Kyan, and Choki Motobu. He mixed their teachings with his own innovations. In the early years of its development, Tatsuo called his style Chan Migwa Te, it later evolved to Sun Nu Su, and then finally settled upon Isshin Ryu.

One of his top students asked "Why such a funny name?" and Tatsuo replied "Because all things begin with one." Isshin Ryu is the One Heart Way.

Although Tatsuo's style began earlier, January 15th, 1956 is commonly recognized as the birthday of Isshin Ryu Karate.