Gojū-ryū

Gojū-ryū ( 剛柔流 gōjū ryū) (Japanese for "Hard-soft style") is a style of karate, so called as it allows a combination of hard and soft techniques. It is commonly believed that the concept of combining the two extremes originated in a Chinese martial arts doctrine known as wu pei chih. Gojū-ryū combines hard striking attacks like kicks and punches with softer circular techniques for blocking and controlling the opponent, including locks, grappling, takedowns and throws. Gojū-ryū's specialty is in-fighting or close-quarter combat. Major emphasis is given to breathing correctly. Goju-ryu is one of very few karate styles that practice methods of which include body strengthening and conditioning, its basic approach to fighting (distance, stickiness, power generation, etc.) and its partner drills. Goju-ryu has the sophistication of being both linear and circular making it usable by all ages, sizes, and genders.