Isshinryu Karate Academy

The Isshinryu Karate Academy of Pittsburgh provides a great environment to learn, practice and enjoy traditional karate. Our instructors and students are passionate about our karate.

We have a grand tradition that started over thirty years ago. Master William H. Duessel originated the Academy of Isshinryu Karate along with Charles A. Wallace. The Academy was one of the largest East Coast schools with enrollment of over 500 students. This full time school taught and developed many Isshinryu black belts and practitioners, some of who have gone on to spread Isshinryu karate around the United States. The Isshinryu Karate Academy present location is 600 Greentree Road in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

We teach traditional Isshinryu Karate and are a members of the I.W.K.A. (Isshinryu World Karate Association). The late Master Tatsuo Shimabuku created Isshinryu karate by blending the best techniques from Shorin ryu and Goju ryu styles to originate a most unique system of karate. His son, Kichiro Shimabuku created the I.W.K.A to unify the system and continues the Masters teachings on Okinawa and around the world.

Our system is a very practical style that emphasizes effect techniques for physical fitness, self-defense and personal development. Formal training consists of basics techniques, self-defense techniques, kata and weapon practice as well as sparring.