![]() ![]() ![]() Just some highlights of his Coaching career to date: For the past two decades Sensei Andreas has been regarded as one of the most successful instructors and coaches of Sport Karate both in the England and internationally, having taught dozens or domestic and international champions, both individual and teams. *This account is edited information that has been provided by Shihan Walter Todd (the American Shudokan Association), and the East Asian Cultural Institute.Sensei Andreas Michaelides began training at the age of 5 and is currently one of the highest official graded instructors in the World. This intention was built into the system to allow for its continued growth of both the individual and style. As an educator, Toyama believed his system should not stagnate. These forms are used to develop and concentrate the potential of an individual. Another unique set of forms created by Shudokan are Sonshin, Kakashin, and Choshin. Today, the basic Kyoku forms are taught only to brown belt student, and the longer more complex forms are still taught only to black belts. These forms were developed to represent the fighting techniques of the system and were considered secret. Originally taught only at the Hombu Dojo (Headquarters School), even the most basic of these kata were reserved for members who held a third-degree black belt or higher. There are seven kata in this group, starting with the very basic techniques, and building into long complex form, in a set progression. One set of forms that were developed within the system is the Kyoku forms. Shudokan, because of its physical character, has developed its own unique kata. Because of the balance between hard and soft power, this system promotes good health. Which included throws, blocks, and chokes. Soft power is taught along with sophisticated applications. The practice of extension of the motions develops power and physique. Shudokan is characterized by large circular motions with an emphasis on covering. Weapons have also affected the empty hand forms in that the motions tend to be larger, often drawing a number of intersecting circles, with different parts of the body moving on different planes at the same time. The aspect of weapons in Shudokan adds to its versatility and practicality. Tomari-te included some tight yet sophisticated motions and in appearance it is both graceful and noble. ![]() Tomari-te is characterized by the speed of the Shorin-ryu and the strength of the Naha-te, and also included its own soft type of power. The Tomari-te style is generally considered an extinct system except in a few composite systems such as Shudokan. Power sources include both hard, and soft. The Naha-te system’s forms, sometimes known as Goju-ryu, Shorie-ryu, or Higashiona-ha, represent strong rooted motions with an emphasis on internal breathing. Its kata represent light, quick motions and a variety of power sources. Shurite, sometimes known as Shorin-ryu, or Itosu-ha is a component of Shudokan karate. There are also kata (formal exercises) that are unique to Shudokan karate. Shudokan karate is a composite system, encompassing Kobutjutsu (Ancient art, referring to the specialized weapons practice of Okinawan karate). The name of Toyama ‘s school was Shudokan, which means “Institute for the cultivation of the way.” Today, this term refers not only to his school, but also to his system. Toyama ‘s first dojo was opened in Tokyo in 1930, and he quickly became famous for his Aka Ryoku (strong gripping methods of Itosu and Itarashiki). An official gave Toyama the title of master instructor. Given this diverse martial arts background, the Japanese government soon recognized Toyama ‘s prowess, and awarded him the right to promote to any rank in any style of Okinawan karate. While on a six year assignment to teach elementary school in Japanese occupied Taiwan (1924-1930), he studied Chinese martial arts with masters Chen Fong Tai in Taipei and Lim Fun Fong in Taichung. He was considered an expert swordsman, as well. Toyama ‘s interest in martial arts was not limited to karate. A few of his other teachers were, Aragaki, Azato, Chibana, Higaonna, Oshiro, and Tana. ![]()
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