Honoring God Through Chutoku Ryu Karate

Origins of a Unique Martial Art

Here at our Savior Martial Arts, one of the unique systems we teach is Chutoku Ryu Karate. Developed by Soke Scott Gilbert and recognized in 2003 by the Zen Kokusai Soke Budo/Bugei Renmei of Okinawa/Japan, Chutoku Ryu Karate is considered one of the first fully Christian martial arts styles in the world to receive formal Okinawan/Japanese certification and credentials.

Meaning Behind the Name

The name “Chutoku Ryu” translates to “Faithful Virtue Style” in Japanese. And true to its name, Chutoku Ryu Karate focuses on embodying Christian values and principles through traditional karate practice.

Christian Values-Based Training

So what sets Chutoku Ryu apart from secular styles of karate? While to the untrained eye, the stances, strikes, blocks, katas, and sparring may look similar on the surface to other Okinawan-derived styles, the foundational philosophy of Chutoku Ryu is firmly rooted in biblical concepts. Technique alone is never the end goal, but rather a means to grow in godly character traits like integrity, discipline, humility, excellence, using our gifts purposefully for others, overcoming struggle through perseverance, cultivating inner peace, and ultimately bringing glory to God.

Here are some examples of how Christian beliefs and values manifest in Chutoku Ryu Karate’s curriculum:

• Humility & Service – Students are taught to use their skills to humbly serve community, placing others before ego. The dojo feels like an extended family supporting each other.
• Godly Character Development – Rank promotion focuses not just on physical talent, but core Christlike traits – love, self-control, integrity, kindness, and more. Students strive to embody the Fruits of the Spirit in every class.
• Stewarding Gifts – Chutoku Ryu teaches students that abilities are on loan from God to use for His purposes. Whether strong at kicking combinations or patient counseling, all gifts have meaning.
• Perseverance Through Hardship – Karate training builds “faith muscles” applicable to all of life’s toughest fights. Students are encouraged in their walk, not condemned for setbacks.
• Cultivating Inner Peace – Unlike rigid martial arts, Chutoku Ryu black belts display grace and seek to model Christ’s peace to students. The goal is well-rounded ambassadors, not ego-driven fighters.

Revival Under a Christian Master

Our dojo now revives this special art under Shihan Loran Martin, 4th Dan Black Belt trained directly under Soke Gilbert. If you are age 13-adult and you desire traditional martial arts skills alongside biblical character cultivation, our Chutoku Ryu program could be a perfect fit! Come join our caring community and see how scripture-enriched training can transform hearts and minds.