Isshin - Ryu
The word "Seiunchin" is written as "Control Pull, Fight" by many Okinawa Gojuryu stylists, as well as isshinryu teacher Master Angi Uezu (son in law of Shimabuku Tatsuo). perhaps hinting at the various grappling and grabbing techniques contained within Seiunchin translates as the "War Kata," "Lull Before The Storm," or "Calm Within the Storm". Seiunchin Kata contains no kicking techniques but builds strength and stamina through its breathing and strong muscular tension. This kata teaches a horse stance (as if riding a horse) position. This kata is of Goju Ryu origin. Seiunchin traces back to Kanryo Higaonna of the Naha-te system (1853-1915). Higaonna traveled to China and studied Chinese Kempo. One of Higaonna's most famous students was Chojun Miyagi (1887-1953) Miyagi also traveled to China and spent four years studying Chinese martial arts. In 1920, Miyagi founded the karate system Goju-Ryu. It is unknown if Seiunchin was developed by Kanryo Higaonna or Chojun Miyagi, but Seiunchin has roots in the Chinese systems. ==References==