Berkeley Isshinryu

The Berkeley Isshinryu dojo is a martial arts school serving the San Francisco Bay Area students of Isshin-ryu Karate. The dojo emphasizes finding balance between extremes in practice, with rigorous workouts that prioritize safety and respect. It teaches Isshin-ryu, a style of karate that values direct and natural movements, mobility, and precision. The dojo welcomes students of all ages, body types, and levels of experience, with small classes allowing for detailed and personalized instruction. The dojo was founded in 2000 and has been led by several instructors, including Daniel Heath, who has been promoted to 4th dan by O'Sensei Kichiro Shimabuku. The dojo also welcomes visiting instructors and students from other schools, practicing a style of karate that values simplicity, directness, and balance.