It is regarded as a variant of Karate Jutsu, or a complete Budo martial art form. Meaning it is structured to emulate traditional forms of Japanese Karate. Rhino Ryu’s belt system provides levels of achievement and markers for progress. This allows the maintenance of focus and upholds the values of honor, discipline, and respect. Martial arts is a study of patience, diligence, and consistency. They are intended to develop a strong and moral character. More closely, Rhino Ryu’s fundamental outlook and strategy towards combat in real-life situations is that of traditional Okinawa Karate.
Many regard original forms of Okinawan Karate styles as early MMA. It incorporated grappling and striking, with techniques shared from Kung Fu, and from Ju Jutsu, specifically the local traditional wrestling system known as Shima. The striking was less stylized and simplified for more direct and powerful efficiency and effectiveness. The grappling also shared many attributes similar to Western forms of wrestling. Many of the training methods were very innovative for its time, using early examples of pads and mitts, and sparing gear. It was paired with strength and conditioning practices, using weights similar to kettlebells. Rhino Ryu maintains the modern, refined versions of these practices.
Systematically, like many of the grappling Budo of the era, fighting on the ground was not ideal. As it is today, in real-life situations, fighting on the ground is not ideal. Wrestling systems are sports that evolved out of hand-to-hand combat. Where the objective is taking down an opponent, immobilizing them, and opening vulnerable areas to end the opponent. In all forms of grappling, it is crucial to be the fighter on top and stay there. Rhino Ryu has a uniqueness in contrast to other systems.
The grappling focus is derived from American wrestling systems, like freestyle and folk style. Our objective for grappling is to maintain a top position to deliver damage by way of ground and pound. Creating the opportunity to stay on the feet. If found on the bottom, the objective is to get off the ground and to the feet, or at minimum reverse the position. While the submission game is limited to chokes, it is a definite way to incapacitate your opponent. Submission is viewed as a last resort, final result, or is used only when found naturally. The intent behind it is to use energy wisely. Deliver damage continuously with minimal struggle. Submission attempts can often be low in percentage for completion, and performed at a slower pace of fighting, specifically for one-on-one scenarios. In other words, ending a fight via KO is a priority.
The striking system is based on Japanese and American Kickboxing, displaying a vast variety of Kicks and Punches. It also encompasses many clinching and elbow techniques found in Muay Thai, as well as the head movement and footwork of International Boxing. Another uniqueness is the emphasis on fighting from both stances, orthodox and southpaw, attributes of Karate. All strikes and headbutting are utilized on all areas of the body. This would also include hammer fists and palm strikes. Any sweeps, trips, throws, or takedowns are also practiced. This gives Rhino Ryu a very complete and intensive curriculum.
Such variety takes a lifetime of mastery. For Rhino Ryu can only evolve with the generations of its disciples and practitioners, who add and refine skills. There is a minimum of 2000 training hours to achieve the black belt. Once achieved, one is considered a journeyman martial arts practitioner. There are no degrees following, simply freedom of expression. Does Rhino Ryu sound interesting to you? What are your thoughts on a traditional martial arts system redesigned for today? We are interested in hearing your thoughts. Thanks for reading. Osu!
