Goshinkwai

Goshinkwai is a Martial Art developed by two brothers in Wales- yes, I said Wales. It roughly translates to: "by way of body defense". It could be an effective self defense method for women.

History

Gordon and John Warfield were born in Ebbw Vale, Gwent, Wales in the United Kingdom in 1932 and 1934. In 1944 they received a book on Judo and boxing for Christmas. Gordon became intrigued by the notion of throwing an opponent with ease. Eight years later he found a Judo class in a nearby town and convinced John to join the class with him.

Together the brothers rented and old ambulance hall and a 24 ft square mat in order to train. They then met Jim Langford, a prison warden, who had studied Ju Jitsu. They then concentrated their studies toward Ju Jitsu.

They contacted the Amateur Judo Association and heard about Japanese Buda Master Kenshiro Abbe. Through their very persistent efforts, they eventually met Master Abbe and persuaded him to come to Wales and stay with them for a week to train them. Gordon and John formed a relationship with him and they received training from him as often as they could afford.

The Warfiled’s also studied other disciplines, including Aikido, but focused their interest on un-armed self defense. They received training from many influential masters including Machigami, Nakazono, Norro, Yamada and Matsushita.

Gordon and John were encouraged to develop their own system of un-armed combat. Master Abbe asked them to demonstrate their style while he was performing at a course in South Wales. Following the exhibition he awarded them their Shodan (1st Dan) grades.

When it came time to name their art, Master Abbe helped them choose the name Goshinkwai.

Master Abbe gave the brothers the single entitlement to teach self defense under the name Goshinkwai, a great honor.

Training

Training begins with footwork and body movement to avoid attack. Aggressive low kicks to kneecaps, shins, groin, etc to disable or offset the attacker’s balance is next to be taught.

Striking is taught next as well as grappling and floor work, concentrating on aggression and power while causing pain and injury. The system has unique foot work principles developed by John that allows the student very fluent movement.

Goshinkwai training can be adapted to all ages and physical abilities. Life long practice is encouraged because of this.

Association

This Martial Art is recognized and accepted as a valid system by many major Asian organizations. It is affiliated with and sponsored by Juko-Kai Kokusei Remmei, one of the largest, most recognized Martial Arts associations in the world.

Goshinkwai is not a sport and there are no rules. It is a practical self defense system that consists of strikes, kicks, strangles, chokes and body movement.

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