What is the Zentokukai?

The Zentokukai is a Toude (Karate-Do) Association founded on March 15th, of 1997 by Sensei Tim Rodgers, Sensei Angel Lemus, Sensei Jim Pizii, and Sensei Walter Dailey. It’s purpose is to preserve the teachings of Masters Kyan, Chotoku and Shimabukuro, Zenryo, two of Okinawa’s greatest Karatemen, and to promote research for the study of Kata and it’s practical applications. The Zentokukai has it’s roots in the Seibukan Dojo, founded by Master Shimabukuro in 1962, and the Seibukan Karate-Do Association; but functions independently and expands upon that solid foundation to promote it’s goals.

The Zentokukai was formed out of a need to further research the true meaning and application of Okinawan Toude (Karate-Do); not only the physical combative aspects, but also it’s philosophical and spiritual aspects, which are universal to all mankind, and represent the “Do” or “way of life”.

The Zentokukai does not practice nor promote sports Karate and/or modern competition, it emphasizes the Koryu “old-style” techniques which are practical and very effective for self-defense purposes, regardless of one’s size and/or strength. The Zentokukai is made up of a number of dojos (schools) throughout the United States. Most of these dojo were once members of the Seibukan Karate-Do Association.

Although very traditional in practice, the Zentokukai is a unique organization, for it allows individual expression and input by Senseis and students alike. It is not interested in creating robotic practitioners but in helping individuals to discover themselves through hard work, discipline, and determination.
The Zentokukai Board of Directors
Special message to the Zentokukai from Sohan Tim Rodgers
strong body, fearless character, which in turn is checked by a humble spirit.

The Zentokukai is not interested in rapid growth as
an organization, therefore it is very selective in the character of the individuals it chooses to allow penetrate it’s circle.

The Zentokukai welcomes you into its family, and hopes that you will discover the hidden potential within yourself through the practice of Okinawan Toude!

This is what the Zentokukai is all about. Thank you for visiting and come back soon.

Angel Lemus - Fukukaicho Zentokukai
The Zentokukai is a living, breathing entity which like human beings, is in a constant state of self-evaluation, change, and growth. It emphasizes respect for all of it’s members regardless of sex and/or rank.It promotes open communications and dialogue and does not hold back any knowledge from it’s members.

The Zentokukai’s primary goals are not measured by ego, personality, sports and/or monetary achievements, but in helping each student to grow as a human being who is dignified, honorable, and truthful with him/herself, family and community. This is achieved by using the physical training, and promoting the proper virtues to forge a
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© Okinawa Shorinjiryu Toude Zentokukai