Our curriculum is drawn directly from that taught by Hanshi Kise and Kaicho Isao in Okinawa. It consists of basic exercises (both empty-hand and with weapons), kata (again, both empty-hand and with weapons), tuite, free sparring, and structured one-on-one techniques.

Tuite is the ancient art of self-defense which does not require strength, but a knowledge of the human body - how it moves and how it does not move. Tuite focuses on putting the aggressor in an uncomfortable position by manipulating their arms, hands and wrist.

In sparring, two students fight one another with no prescribed attack or defense. To ensure this is a safe activity, protective equipment is worn, contact is to the area covered by the gi only, and contact is light.

Testing is held about once each month. Shihan Lazarus decides who is eligible for testing based on number of classes attended. There is a short time in between testing for beginners; the time in between testings gets longer as you move up in rank. During testing you will do basic exercises, ippon kumite, kata (for your rank), and sparring. Lastly, you will be asked about elements of the traditional protocol and history, as this is an important part of our training.

Tournaments are not a regular or required part of our training, but we do occasionally organize a dojo trip to a tournament. We feel this gives students a chance to practice their sparring skills with students from other styles.

Grand Master Kise visits us once a year. During his visit all students can attend classes run by Grandmaster Kise, where they benefit from his watchful eye and deep insight. Black belt testings are held only when Grandmaster Kise is here.