What Is RyuTe?

RyuTe is the Life Protection System developed and introduced to the world by Taika Seiyu Oyata. “Taika” (which is a title, and is how he is addressed) translates as “learned scholar”. Taika began teaching in the United States in the late 60's, and moved to the U.S. permanently in the early 70's (for further information about Taika, or to locate other RyuTe Association Dojo's, go to the RyuTe Renmei home-page ). Initially Taika gained attention with his use of Kyushu-jutsu (the art of vital-point striking), which he taught to his students to disable would-be assailants. Though not the main emphasis of RyuTe instruction, it was initially this aspect of his teachings that elevated his reputation, first in the United States, then around the world.

RyuTe training consists of much more than Kyushu-jutsu. RyuTe also trains students in the art of Tuite-jutsu (the art of grab-hand), this is Taika Oyata's “grappling” system, derived from the moves contained within the kata that students of RyuTe practice/study, and also Atemi-jutsu (the art of body-strike) which is the striking aspect of this style.

Some systems teach similar techniques, but the method in which these techniques are being applied by RyuTe practitioners is different enough that vigilant supervision must be initially maintained in order to prevent student injury. It's for this reason that minors (under the age of 16) are, at present, restricted from study of this art at this school.

Students are instructed in all of RyuTe's methods of Life Protection through example and explanation, and then practiced by slow repetitions until those methods are understood. Students who have demonstrated their ability to control their own motions and their training partner's reactions are allowed to increase the speed of their practice, but even then, only under direct supervision.

When you observe a RyuTe class, one of the initial things noticed, is that there is no display of individual rank through the use of colored belts. This is to emphasize the fact that we are all students. Taika believes that this helps to keep egos in check, and will reinforce the idea that we are studying together to become better individuals through our training. All students study and practice the same techniques together. There are no “secret” or “restricted” techniques.

RyuTe also offers instruction in classical Okinawan weapons. This includes training in the kata/use of the Bo, Tan-Bo, Sai, Manji-Sai, Jo, and Chizikun-bo. Though not mandatory, weapons instruction is often utilized to emphasize application of open-hand technique. The Bokken, and Suburito are also used to develop the students's forearm muscles for more efficient strikes/grabs.

Though, currently, Bogu-Kumite (sparring with the utilization of heavy protective gear) is not being offered, there are future plans for it to be incorporated into the curriculum for those who express an interest in doing so.

We also offer specialized courses designed for Law Enforcement/Security personnel. These include :

                     Handgun Retention

                     Handcuffing and Prisoner Compliance

                     Straight/Expandable Baton

                     Defensive Tactics

When you become a student of the Nagarate Kokyukan Dojo, you become part of a larger organization, the RyuTe Renmei Association. Memberships allows you to attend any association seminar/event at discounted prices and are offered the opportunity to study the art of Te, as it was designed to be used, as a Life Protection Method.

Unlike many systems, in RyuTe, when you are allowed to test for Shodan (1st level Black Belt), you will do so under the scrutiny of Taika himself. You will then be considered a student of Taika Seiyu Oyata, and will be eligible to train with him at his Dojo once a week.

 

RyuTe Motto

“To strive to obtain true moral goodness and to express it through one's every action”