Although some will classify this form of martial arts as Japanese, many current experts on this self-defense style will strongly disagree with such a classification. They will argue that because founder Tsuyoshi Chitose clearly utilized the influence of Okinawan Tode, the Chito-ryu style itself is therefore better classified as Okinawan.

However you feel about it, the potential alone of the kata that are typically associated with this style is something that should be taken seriously. Increased strength and stability while in stance is one of the more considerable signature components to this style. However, as you’re going to discover, that is not the only defining mark to this martial arts form by any means.

Chito-ryu History And Background

Particularly from the point in which it was formally established in 1946, Chitose quickly managed to establish Chito-ryu as one of the most comprehensive, intensive forms of self-defense to be found anywhere in the world. The teachers who are most famously associated with this style are amongst the most proficient, knowledgeable experts on martial arts in recent history.

Part of any definition of Chito-ryu will have to consider the fact that Chitose set himself up in mainland-Japan in 1921, in order to focus his studies on medicine. This is likely one of the reasons as to why this art has such a distinctive element of physiology behind it. Chitose clearly used that background to make some of the adjustments to existing techniques that have come to define his influential style in the present.

Chito-ryu distinguishes itself in a variety of ways. One such way is the techniques that are designed to use the muscles at optimal efficiency. The kime technique has already mentioned, and there are the shibori and tai sabaki techniques, as well. These techniques contract muscles, intensify focus, create strength, and emphasize consistent movement.

The diversity of this particular art is perhaps best found in the various kata that are studied. What’s interesting about the kata found here is how some of them are almost completely dissimilar from the kata for which they are named. On the other hand, Chito-ryu also features kata that are extremely similar to the kata it shares its name with. For example, the Chinto kata in Chito-ryu is almost exactly the same as the Chinto kata found in Shorin-ryu.

The Bottom Line

Chito-ryu is a formidable form of martial arts. You can find organizations dedicated to its principles and techniques all across North America, Asia, and Australia.