Micro-plyometrics are low-amplitude, high-speed elastic movements that train the body's spring system while minimizing impact.Examples include:
Although the movements appear small, they create exceptionally high-quality elastic loading while dramatically reducing stress on the joints.This makes them ideal for long-term athletic development and especially valuable for experienced martial artists who wish to preserve power throughout life.
Connective tissue does not become stronger during exercise.It becomes stronger during recovery.Muscle tissue often recovers within one or two days.Tendons, fascia, and ligaments recover more slowly because they receive less blood supply.Recovery is therefore not the opposite of training.Recovery is an essential part of training.The objective is not simply to train harder.The objective is to recover more effectively so the body becomes stronger, more resilient, and more elastic.
At twenty-five, success often meant surviving the workout.At sixty, success means finishing the workout feeling better than when you started.Every training session should leave you feeling:
Never chronically exhausted.The body remembers movement quality far better than training quantity.
A balanced training schedule develops the complete martial artist while allowing adequate recovery.A typical week might include:
Connective tissues thrive on frequent, intelligent stimulation.They do not thrive on repeated punishment.
Long-term tendon health depends upon consistent habits rather than occasional intense efforts.Maintain a healthy body weight.Sleep consistently.Stay well hydrated.Consume adequate daily protein.When appropriate, consider collagen with vitamin C before connective tissue training.Maintain strength.Maintain flexibility.Maintain balance.Continue moving every day.Healthy tendons flourish under regular, progressive loading.They deteriorate from both overuse and prolonged inactivity.
The highest-performing athletes understand that recovery is part of every workout.After training:
Tomorrow's explosiveness is determined by today's recovery.
The young athlete trains to become powerful.The mature karate master trains to remain powerful.The young athlete counts repetitions.The karate master values perfect repetitions.The young athlete seeks fatigue.The karate master seeks efficiency.The young athlete develops muscles.The karate master develops springs.
The ultimate purpose of plyometric training is not simply to jump higher or move faster for a single season.Its true purpose is to preserve the body's elastic system so that power, speed, balance, coordination, and effortless movement remain available throughout a lifetime of karate practice.True mastery is not measured by how powerful you become in your youth.It is measured by how gracefully, efficiently, and explosively you continue to move throughout your life.The highest achievement of plyometric science is not peak performance.It is lifelong performance.

Plyometric science is far more than jumping higher or moving faster. It is the study of how the human body stores, transfers, and releases elastic energy to produce efficient, explosive movement.Every punch, kick, step, throw, and evasive movement depends upon the body's ability to rapidly absorb force, store that energy within its elastic tissues, and release it almost instantaneously. This process allows power to be generated with remarkable efficiency rather than through muscular effort alone.The world's fastest and most explosive athletes are not necessarily the strongest. They are often the athletes who lose the least amount of energy between landing and takeoff.The same principle applies to karate.A karate technique is only as explosive as the body's ability to rapidly store, transfer, and return energy.
Every explosive human movement follows the same sequence.First, the body accepts force.The muscles, tendons, and fascia lengthen under load while storing elastic energy.The nervous system immediately recognizes this stretch and signals the muscles to reverse direction.The tendons and fascial tissues recoil like springs.That stored energy is then transferred efficiently throughout the body to produce powerful movement.Without elastic recoil, every technique becomes primarily muscular.With elastic recoil, movement becomes lighter, faster, and more efficient.Power begins to feel effortless.
Fascia is the body's continuous three-dimensional connective tissue network. It surrounds and links every muscle, tendon, ligament, bone, nerve, blood vessel, and organ into one integrated system.Rather than thinking of muscles as isolated structures, it is more accurate to view the body as one continuous web of tension.This fascial network transfers force from one part of the body to another.A punch does not begin in the fist.It begins in the floor.Ground reaction forces travel upward through the feet, legs, hips, trunk, shoulders, and finally the hand through interconnected fascial chains.The more efficiently these chains function, the less muscular effort is required to produce speed and power.
Muscles create movement.Tendons store movement.Unlike muscle tissue, tendons function as biological springs.As force enters the body, tendons stretch slightly, storing elastic energy before releasing it almost instantly.Well-conditioned tendons reduce muscular effort, decrease joint stress, and improve movement efficiency.For the experienced martial artist, healthy tendons make it possible to remain explosive for decades rather than years.
Speed is largely neurological.The brain recruits motor units.The spinal cord coordinates precise timing.Fast-twitch muscle fibers contract.Connective tissues transfer force.Each part of this sequence must occur within fractions of a second.Training while exhausted teaches the nervous system to move slowly.Training while fresh teaches the nervous system to move explosively.Quality is remembered far longer than fatigue.

Budo Curriculum Vitae of Les Heri Shihan (Budo-warrior arts of Japan)
1972-1976-Richard Chun Tae Kwon Do Center NYC -Achieved -Brown belt
1976-Tiger Dojo Institute of Goju Karate & Aiki-jitsu, NYC
1979-1st dan Black belt in Kyusho-Jutsu
1981-1st dan Black belt in Goju-ryu karate
1982-1985-Instructor at Tiger Dojo Institute of Goju Karate & Aiki-jitsu, NYC
Achieved 2nd Degree Black belt in Goju-ryu karate-do
Achieved 1st Degree Black belt in Iaido (samurai sword, drawing and cutting)
Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate-do Preservation Society, NYC Instructor
Taught over 200 students at various locations throughout NYC
Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate-do Preservation Society, NYC Instructor
Achieved 3rd Degree Black belt in Goju-ryu karate-do
American Indian Child & Family Services, Akron, NY
Karate program founder & Chief Instructor
Developed curriculum and taught Native American children and teens
Bally Matrix Health Spa -Williamsville, NY
Contracted Karate, Self Defense and Safety Awareness instructor
Tiger Dojo, NYC- Owner & Chief Instructor
Awarded the title "Renshi" (meaning Polished Master) Opened independent (non-franchise) karate school
Okinawa Karate-do Federation Goju-kai
Awarded 4th Degree Black belt
Awarded "Shihan" (meaning Master Instructor) license Received Kobudo Certification in ancient Okinawan weapons
Battle of L.A.-National Martial Arts Championship won 1st place Gold Medal Men's Senior Black Belt Forms http://www.BattleofLA.com
Hollywood Nationals-National Martial Arts Competition
1st place- Men's Advanced Black Belt Sparring
1st place- Advanced Black Belt Weapons Competition 3rd place- Men' s Advanced Black Belt Forms
Okinawa Karate-do Federation Goju-kai
Awarded 5th Degree Black belt
Awarded the Bushido Award by the Nikkei Games Karate Committee
see the original text for selecting Heri Sensei at the end of this document
1981-2021
Current Community CPR and First Aid certificate issued by the American Red Cross
National & International coach, judge and referee
Bushido Award 2013 Winner - Les Heri presented by the Nikkei Games Karate Committee
The Bushido Award is given to the competitor that has demonstrated karate in the true spirit of budo. It is not necessarily given to the best competitor but is also awarded for extraordinary displays of sportsmanship and spirit.
The winner is selected by the Nikkei Karate Committee. A trophy is awarded and the winner
recognized at the subsequent years event. Winners need not be selected every year, only if a competitor displays the necessary qualifications.
When we select an award winner, it is not about the who the best fighter is or who does the best kata. It is primarily about demonstration of the martial spirit. It is about a competitor that exemplifies the true values of Bushido (warrior’s code). Proper attitude is paramount. The competitor is a humble when winning and is respectful when losing. When fighting, the competitor exercises proper control and constantly demonstrates good sportsmanship.
When an entire dojo demonstrates these qualities, it is hard to pick one winner.
The reason why the students have these qualities is because of an exemplary Sensei. It is because of this that this year’s recipient of the Nikkei Karate Bushido Award goes to Bushido Award 2013 Winner - Les Heri
Heri Sensei, a native of New York City, a student of Shihan Michael Robinson.
Currently Heri Sensei is a 5th dan in Goju Ryu and has been studying martial arts since 1972. He is a former champion in kumite and kobudo in the Hollywood Nationals. He was also a former
kata champion from the LA National Martial Arts Championship.
Sensei Heri has been a strong supporter of the Nikkei Games karate tournament. He requires participation in the tournament by all his students. He also requires
all students and parents to stay for the duration of the tournament, teaching the students respect and support for their fellow team members. This is commendable
and further solidified our decision to present him with the award.
Heri Sensei currently teaches more than 100 students each week in three locations and at his dojo in Torrance, CA Our Karate School is focused on teaching practical self-defense techniques that can be used in real-life situations. Our experienced instructors will help you learn to protect yourself and your loved ones.
…..are you ready for a challenge that will increase your situational awareness and develop amazing defensive skills that can allow you the ability to protect yourself and your loved ones?
Our classes are NOT geared for recreational purposes, to have fun or to have something to do. Shoreiha Dojo, its teachers, students, curriculum and training are quite serious and is NOT designed for everyone. It IS designed to get practical results and visible progress is usually apparent within the first three months of training. Shoreiha Dojo’s emphasis on serious, disciplined training reflects its deep roots in the traditional of the martial arts of Okinawa, the birthplace of karate. The dojo is not just a place for casual fitness or social interaction; it’s a serious institution where students are expected to commit fully to their own martial arts journey. This focus on genuine, long-term progress distinguishes Shoreiha Dojo from many other schools or recreational programs that prioritize a more relaxed approach or short-term goals.The approach described—requiring a formal interview with Sensei before acceptance—signifies that Shoreiha Dojo is mindful of the potential of the prospective student. This step ensures that each individual is mentally prepared to take on the rigorous demands of the dojo's curriculum. Sensei seeks out whether the prospective student has the mindset and character necessary for the challenges ahead. It’s not just about the physical capabilities of the student, but about mental discipline, perseverance, and the right attitude.Shoreiha Dojo's structure is designed for individuals who are serious about their martial arts development and understand that real progress takes time, effort, and dedication. By focusing on creating visible results within a relatively short time (the first three months), the dojo sets clear expectations for its students, both in terms of effort and outcomes. This isn't a place for trial and error; instead, it’s about commitment to long-term growth.The curriculum itself involves not just technical skill development but also mental fortitude, respect for tradition, and a focus on self-discipline. These are hallmarks of traditional Okinawan karate, where martial arts training is as much about shaping character as it is about perfecting technique.By not allowing casual “let’s try it out” students, Shoreiha Dojo is ensuring that its members are fully invested in their martial arts journey. This creates a more cohesive and serious environment where everyone shares a common goal: to progress, learn, and excel. The community becomes stronger because each student is there with intention and focus.In summary, Shoreiha Dojo offers much more than just a physical workout or a fun hobby. It is a place for individuals who are committed to mastering the discipline of karate, undergoing a transformative experience that develops both body and mind thereby strengthening the spirit of the practitioner in the process. The formal interview process and rigorous standards ensure that only those who are serious about the practice become part of the dojo thereby fostering an environment of dedication, respect, and continuous growth.
The, ‘let’s try it out and see if he likes it’ thinking, is not honored here.
Students are expected to be committed to their training BEFORE they are accepted into the Dojo and begin their exciting, yet demanding new journey..…a formal interview by Sensei IS required by ALL prospective students as a prerequisite to joining this class and our Dojo. For those under 18 years of age, your school grades will be discussed as we believe that successful academic performance is of paramount importance for your future. Life success is far more important than ANY recreational accolades. The average grade of Shoreiha Juniors is a B+, and the average GPA of H.S. students of Shoreiha Dojo is a 3.35. Students over 13 years of age must produce a copy of Red Cross Certification of Community (infant, child and adult) CPR and First Aid to qualify for Brown and Black Belt grading! At your interview with Heri Sensei, please be prepared to speak (for yourself) of your schedule, goals, number of classes a week you will be training year-round, and ANY activities that may interfere with your regular training schedule. Females of all ages are encouraged to join as Sensei is a big believer in Girl Power and has helped many young ladies achieve some of their goals in the realm of confidence, poise, personal discipline, safety (situational) awareness and true physical self defense skills. We welcome those who are serious about beginning the difficult and arduous journey to tackle the fears that hold us back from the potential we are all given...
——————————-
Héri Sensei synopsis
Heri Sensei had a 40 year karate competition career and has 26 years of 'hands on' nightclub security experience in NYC and LA.
Heri Sensei is also an edged weapon/handgun disarm S.M.E.
-Aiki Jutsu-Joint lock/break compliance
-Kyusho Jutsu (vital point targeting)
He privately teaches LEO's, licensed/bonded security/bodyguard and high net worth families tactics/strategies/lethal personal/empty hand/defense and escape techniques.
It ALL starts with Situational Awareness and tactical breathing
——————————-
Shoreiha Dojo: A Deep Commitment to Tradition and Practical Results
Shoreiha Dojo traces its roots to Naha, Okinawa—the birthplace of karate. The dojo's lineage connects it to the historical traditions and rigorous standards of Okinawan martial arts.

Shoreiha Dojo’s emphasis on serious, disciplined training reflects its deep roots in the traditional of the martial arts of Okinawa, the birthplace of karate. The dojo is not just a place for casual fitness or social interaction; it’s a serious institution where students are expected to commit fully to their own martial arts journey. This focus on genuine, long-term progress distinguishes Shoreiha Dojo from many other schools or recreational programs that prioritize a more relaxed approach or short-term goals.The approach described—requiring a formal interview with Sensei before acceptance—signifies that Shoreiha Dojo is mindful of the potential of the prospective student. This step ensures that each individual is mentally prepared to take on the rigorous demands of the dojo's curriculum. Sensei seeks out whether the prospective student has the mindset and character necessary for the challenges ahead. It’s not just about the physical capabilities of the student, but about mental discipline, perseverance, and the right attitude.Shoreiha Dojo's structure is designed for individuals who are serious about their martial arts development and understand that real progress takes time, effort, and dedication. By focusing on creating visible results within a relatively short time (the first three months), the dojo sets clear expectations for its students, both in terms of effort and outcomes. This isn't a place for trial and error; instead, it’s about commitment to long-term growth.The curriculum itself involves not just technical skill development but also mindfulness, respect to all others, mental fortitude, respect for tradition, and a focus on self-discipline. These are hallmarks of traditional Okinawan karate, where martial arts training is as much about shaping character as it is about perfecting technique. By not allowing casual “let’s try it out” students, Shoreiha Dojo ensures that or members are fully invested in their martial arts journey. This creates a more cohesive and serious environment where everyone shares a common goal: to progress, learn, and excel. The community becomes stronger because each student is there with focused intention and focus. In summary, Shoreiha Dojo offers much more than just a physical workout or a fun hobby. It is a place for individuals who are committed to mastering the discipline of karate, undergoing a transformative experience that develops both body and mind thereby strengthening the spirit of the practitioner in the process. The formal interview process and rigorous standards ensure that only those who are serious about the practice become part of the dojo thereby fostering an environment of dedication, respect, and continuous growth.
Consistent determined effort, dedication, sacrifice and self discipline ABSOLUTELY get measurable results...Do YOU have what it takes? If not, can you generate what it takes? When I began training 53 years ago...I DID NOT HAVE what it took...I was mindfully, though not gently guided along the way.I am here to help you develop your skills, agility, strategies for defense that can be useful in nearly any situation when you will need it the most, ask any surviving victim of a violent attack and they will tell you. We live in less than gentle world where the wolf DOES exist and may actually come for you or your family. Shockingly this can happen as you sit in your easy chair in your living room with the doors locked. After asking a locksmith which tumbler is best, he said it doesn't make a difference, "Locks, are for honest people and the bad guys will get in if they want it bad enough."Bill Gove, a pioneer in paid public speaking, told us a story I'll never forget. Just before Frank Sinatra stepped out from behind the curtain to perform, a reporter stopped him and said, "Mr. Sinatra, there are 18,000 people in the audience, are you scared?"He said," I have a hundred of hours of practice for each line of the songs I sing." He smiled and said, "I'm not SCARED, because I'm PREPARED!"...and LIFE is much the same...
—————-
Les Héri Shihan
The word Sensei means, "One who has gone before." The implication is that a wise Sensei can show you the 'Way', which is the Do, in karate-do. This journey can be your choice to discover, develop, polish and hone your skills and sharpen you perception and your mind as we seek peace and balance in our lives. Shoreiha Dojo’s emphasis on serious, disciplined training reflects its deep roots in the traditional of the martial arts of Okinawa, the birthplace of karate. The dojo is not just a place for casual fitness or social interaction; it’s a serious institution where students are expected to commit fully to their own martial arts journey. This focus on genuine, long-term progress distinguishes Shoreiha Dojo from many other schools or recreational programs that prioritize a more relaxed approach or short-term goals.The approach requiring a formal interview with Sensei before acceptance—signifies we are mindful of the potential of the prospective student. This step ensures that each individual is mentally prepared to take on the rigorous demands of the dojo's curriculum. Sensei seeks out whether the prospective student has the mindset and character necessary for the challenges ahead. It’s not just about the physical capabilities of the student, but about mental discipline, perseverance, restraint and the right attitude. Shoreiha Dojo's structure is designed for individuals who are serious about their martial arts development and understand that real progress takes time, effort, and dedication. By focusing on creating visible results within a relatively short time (the first three months), the dojo sets clear expectations for its students, both in terms of effort and outcomes. This isn't a place for trial and error; instead, it’s about commitment to long-term growth.The curriculum itself involves not just technical skill development but also mindfulness, respect to all others, mental fortitude, respect for tradition, and a focus on self-discipline. These are hallmarks of traditional Okinawan karate, where martial arts training is as much about shaping character as it is about perfecting technique. By not allowing casual “let’s try it out” students, Shoreiha Dojo ensures that our members are fully invested in their personal journey in budo. This creates a more cohesive and serious environment where everyone shares a common goal: to progress, learn, and excel. The community becomes stronger because each student is there with focused intention and focus. In summary, Shoreiha Dojo offers much more than just a physical workout or a fun hobby. It is a place for individuals who are committed to mastering the discipline of karate, undergoing a transformative experience that develops both body and mind thereby strengthening the spirit of the practitioner in the process. The formal interview process and rigorous standards ensure that only those who are serious about the practice become part of the dojo thereby fostering an environment of dedication, respect, and continuous growth. Consistent determined effort, dedication, sacrifice and self discipline ABSOLUTELY get measurable results...Do YOU have what it takes? If not, can you generate what it takes? When I began training 53 years ago...I DID NOT HAVE what it took...I was mindfully, though not gently guided along the way.I am here to help you develop your skills, agility, strategies for defense that can be useful in nearly any situation when you will need it the most, ask any surviving victim of a violent attack and they will tell you. We live in a less than gentle world where the wolf DOES exist and may actually come for you or your family. Shockingly this can happen as you sit in your easy chair in your living room with the doors locked. After asking a locksmith which tumbler is best, he said it doesn't make a difference, "Locks, are for honest people and the bad guys will get in if they want it bad enough."
———————————
In the dojo
There IS no comfort zone in the Dojo and as such, growth or attrition come quickly. In the world today, incomprehensible violence is commonplace. We may be targeted at terribly inconvenient times, are we prepared in any way to insure our safety? It is very difficult to choose to honestly assess one's vulnerability to a direct and purposeful physical assault upon YOU by a determined attacker. It is frightening to think of a pair of hard men, just released from prison after serving twenty years, gazing at my daughter... Ironically, the Ostrich defense is what many intelligent people do when they realize, in a moment of danger, that they are completely unprepared. Remember the 3 Little Pigs and build your house on a strong foundation. 20 years of disciplined schooling to earn a Doctorate degree is a good investment for education yet not spending a single hour practicing how to actually save your life or virtue from a violent attack. is foolishness. I assure that you will not feel comfortable when an emotionally disturbed person behind you at checkout at Vons becomes uncontrollable violent because he is chemically imbalanced from drugs or he may be off his meds. Think of this as Preventative Medicine and do not wait till you hear the words Stage 4 before you move into action. Our classes are NOT geared for recreational purposes, to have fun or to have something to do. Shoreiha Dojo, its teachers, students, curriculum and training are quite serious and is this is certainly not for everyone. It IS designed to get practical results and visible progress is usually apparent within the first three months of training. Shoreiha Dojo’s emphasis on serious, disciplined training reflects our deep roots in the tradition of the martial arts of Okinawa, the birthplace of karate. The dojo is not just a place for casual fitness or social interaction; it’s a serious institution where students are expected to commit fully to their own martial arts journey. This focus on genuine, long-term progress distinguishes Shoreiha Dojo from many other schools or recreational programs that prioritize a relaxed approach for $tudent retention with no thought given for creating the leaders we all will need in the near future. Requiring a formal interview with Sensei before acceptance—signifies that Shoreiha Dojo is mindful of the potential of the prospective student. This step ensures that each individual is mentally prepared to take on the rigorous demands of the dojo's curriculum. Sensei seeks out whether the prospective student has the mindset and character necessary for the challenges ahead. It’s not just about the physical capabilities of the student, but about mental discipline, perseverance, and the right attitude. Shoreiha Dojo's structure is designed for individuals who are serious about their martial arts development and understand that real progress takes time, effort, and dedication. By focusing on creating visible results within a relatively short time (the first three months), the dojo sets clear expectations for its students, both in terms of effort and outcomes. This isn't a place for trial and error; instead, it’s about commitment to long-term growth.The curriculum itself involves not just technical skill development but also mental fortitude, respect for tradition, and a focus on self-discipline. These are hallmarks of traditional Okinawan karate, where martial arts training is as much about shaping character as it is about perfecting technique.By not allowing casual “let’s try it out” students, Shoreiha Dojo is ensuring that its members are fully invested in their martial arts journey. This creates a more cohesive and serious environment where everyone shares a common goal: to progress, learn, and excel. The community becomes stronger because each student is there with intention and focus.In summary, Shoreiha Dojo offers much more than just a physical workout or a fun hobby. It is a place for individuals who are committed to mastering the discipline of karate, undergoing a transformative experience that develops both body and mind thereby strengthening the spirit of the practitioner in the process. The formal interview process and rigorous standards ensure that only those who are serious about the practice become part of the dojo thereby fostering an environment of dedication, respect, and continuous growth.
———————————————-

Michael Robinson began his martial arts path at the age of eight under Ronald Carter Sensei, (student of Thomas Boddie). At the age of eleven, he was awarded his brown belt in Japanese Goju and showed great promise in both kata and kumite. He remembers four-hour classes, three times a week as a normal thing in those days.
At age eleven, Robinson Sensei began training under Master Leon Wallace (student of Peter Urban) and continued to do so for the next decade. Training was severe, five days a week (as he continued with Carter Sensei) and Saturdays was “kumite day” at the Harlem YMCA where there was a Shotokan club that welcomed outsiders. Sundays were reserved for tournaments attended with Wallace Sensei. At age sixteen, Robinson Sensei began studying under Thomas Boddie Sensei (student of Urban while he was still under Yamaguchi).
In the mid-1960’s, at the age of eighteen, Robinson Sensei’s father moved the entire family to Tokyo while on assignment with the UN. Upon arrival, Robinson Sensei took up his training at the Shoreikan Dojo in Tokyo under Master Seikichi Toguchi. He trained there full time for the year his family lived in Japan.
Upon returning to New York City, Robinson Sensei resumed his training at the Uptown Dojo of Boddie Sensei in upper Manhattan at 164th St. and Amsterdam Ave. He received the rank of Sho dan at age 22 from Boddie Sensei. A number of prominent Japanese instructors filtered through this historic dojo. Shinoda Sensei came first for about a year, at that time he was the US representative of the Shoreikan. Not long after, a remarkable event occurred. The entire dojo, including Boddie Sensei, was converted to the Shoreikan system. This event would be unheard of in today’s martial arts world. Boddie Sensei saw the wisdom of converting to Okinawan Goju under the auspices of Toguchi and Shinoda Sensei’s knowledge and tutelage. His heart was larger than his personality, a great lesson for the rest of us. Soon after, Toshio Tamano Sensei arrived and began instructing in Boddie Sensei’s dojo. Tamano Sensei eventually opened his own branch of the Shoreikan in N.Y.C. and Robinson Sensei trained with both Boddie Sensei and Tamano Sensei for the next decade. Akira Kawakami Sensei also came and trained and instructed there until he moved to Oklahoma and opened his own dojo..
While in New York, Robinson was introduced to the Zen priest (and Gojuryu master) Soken Sakiyama, also known as Osho-san. Osho-san was living a semi-monastic life, traveling and teaching Zen Buddhism (reminiscent of Bodhidharma). He was also a direct student of Grandmaster Miyagi Chojun, the founder of Gojuryu. Osho-san trained with him for much of his life. He considered the kata, Sanchin, a dynamic, moving, meditation exercise of great value. Robinson began his formal training in Zen with Osho-san and continued until Osho-san returned to Okinawa.
While studying and training at the Uptown Dojo, Robinson Sensei also traveled to and trained in Okinawa and later traveled to China to further refine his knowledge and skill level. On Robinson Sensei’s first trip to Okinawa, he stayed and trained for four years. The first year he trained exclusively with Toguchi Sensei at the Shoreikan in Naha City and received his Ni dan rank, and later (in NYC) his San dan rank, from Master Toguchi. Robinson Sensei was able to locate Soken Sakiyama Sensei (Osho-san) in Okinawa and began his tutelage under the master once again. At this time, he trained with both Toguchi Sensei and with Osho-san. In his small monastery, Osho-san taught him Zen, Goju-ryu-in the forms of Seiyunchin, Sanchin, Kururunfa, and Tensho kata, as well as the kata Hakutsuru (White Crane). As many of our readers know, there are several versions of the White Crane form. The version of Hakutsuru kata that Osho-san taught Robinson contained the elements of both Shuri-te and Naha-te. This version was probably developed by Kanro Higashionna and Gokenki (Wu Xiangi or Wu Hsien Kuei).
As Osho-san was a Zen Priest, he did not award rank nor did he issue diplomas. Osho-san knew that Robinson would more than likely teach Gojuryu when he returned to the U.S. so he evaluated him on his knowledge and skill level and verbally stated that Robinson, at that time, was equivalent to a rank of Yon dan. On a subsequent visit to the U.S., Osho-san evaluated him and simply stated that he had reached the equivalent of Go dan.
Upon learning the lineage of Master Eiichi Miyazato (direct student of Miyagi), Robinson Sensei sought him out in Okinawa and began training with Miyazato Sensei while also training full-time in both Zen and Gojuryu with Osho-san. On numerous occasions, he also took advantage of the opportunities to visit and train with Master Meitoku Yagi as well.
It may surprise many of us that in Okinawa at that time, students were, on occasion, encouraged to train with other teachers to further their knowledge or refine their technique at the appropriate time. Protocol demanded that the student receive permission from their current sensei before learning from another at the same time. Robinson Sensei was fortunate to have teachers evolved enough to grant permission as well as to arrange personal introductions.
To the advanced student of Gojuryu, it comes as no surprise that a serious practitioner of the art is inclined to search for the origins of his art. Most of us do not, however, actually physically retrace the steps of the development of our art back to China. This is, however, exactly what Robinson Sensei has done with his life. After a short three-month stay in China (during his first trip to Okinawa), he was determined to travel to and train in China. Robinson Sensei eventually received a student visa from the Chinese authorities to study Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Fuchow University of Internal Medicine. He was taught the internal arts of Tai Chi, Chi Kung and Pa Qua as well as acupuncture, traditional Chinese herbal remedies, medical massage, moxibustion and numerous types of healing Chi Kung exercises. Eventually, he traveled to the Fukien Province to seek out the gung-fu sifu he had been referred to by the chi gong teachers employed by the University Hospital. Due to the historical influence of White Crane chaun-fa on Gojuryu, Robinson Sensei long ago decided to seek out a Crane Boxing sifu. He did just that and studied Crane Boxing for the duration of his stay in China.
During his years in China (and subsequent decades of study, research and practice), Robinson Sensei has learned, and is qualified to teach instructors, the following:
Yang style Tai Chi
Chen style Tai Chi
Hou (small circle Chen style) style Tai Chi
Swimming Dragon chi kung
Happoren (White Crane) chi kung exercises
Eight Brocade chi kung
Tai Chi chi kung
The six healing sounds
Chi kung for arthritis
Sinew changes chi kung
Bone marrow washing chi kung
It is said that the classical man must master both the pen and the sword. To this end, Robinson Sensei has translated a number of books and martial arts texts from ancient Chinese into the English language. He embarked on this journey as a scholar over 25 years ago when he began translating an ancient Shaolin temple training manual called the Wupeichih (Bubishi). This was an epic undertaking and took more than 10 years of full-time research to complete. He completed this book long before any translations were published by more prolific authors and translators. In addition to the Bubishi, he has translated several books including the following:
Lo Ho Ba Fa-8 ways and 6 methods boxing-the counter to Tai Chi boxing
Plum Blossom Post book
Iron Palm book
Fukienese Crane boxing
Crane boxing
Karate do Kempo by Kenwa Mabuni
Robinson Sensei founded the Shoreiha Goju-ryu Research and Preservation Society in 1991 to preserve the teachings of Grand Master Miyagi Chojun, as well as to foster and preserve the practice of the internal arts in which Gojuryu is rooted.
Robinson Sensei currently resides and teaches in New York City and travels throughout the country giving workshops and Master Class seminars in Okinawan Gojuryu to many established Sensei who have not had the opportunity to live and train in Okinawa.-
Discover how scientific plyometric training elevates martial arts performance through this inspiring documentary.
.
Follow our students as they advance through specialized plyometric training.
Watch Robert Strong showcase advanced acrobatic plyometric rollouts.
Turn up the volume...Check out this great video …watch a 105 lb. Female HS student
effectively deflect repeated punches from a 250 lb. male ...turn up the volume please
Heri Sensei had a 40 year karate competition career and has 26 years of 'hands on' nightclub security experience in NYC and LA.
Heri Sensei is also an edged weapon/handgun disarm S.M.E.
-Aiki Jutsu-Joint lock/break compliance
-Kyusho Jutsu (vital point targeting)
He privately teaches LEO's, licensed/bonded security/bodyguard and high net worth families tactics/strategies/lethal personal/empty hand/defense and escape techniques.
It ALL starts with Situational Awareness and tactical breathing
Shoreiha Dojo: A Deep Commitment to Tradition and Practical Results
Shoreiha Dojo traces its roots to Naha, Okinawa—the birthplace of karate. The dojo's lineage connects it to the historical traditions and rigorous standards of Okinawan martial arts.
Copyright © 2026 CoilCore Plyometric Science - All Rights Reserved.