Dictionary of Terms World Black Belt - S
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Shisei
"Posture" or "stance."
Shitahara
Lower abdomen
Shito ryu
A style of karate founded by Kenwa Mabuni. Shito ryu is one of the four major Japanese karate systems
Shizentai
"Natural position." An encompassing term for numerous karate stances in which the body remains relaxed but alert.
Shomen
"Front" or "forward." Often refers to the front wall of a dojo.
Shoshinsha
"Novice" or "beginner." Any unranked Japanese martial artist.
Shotei
Palm heel
Shotokan
A popular Japanese karate system founded by Gichin Funakoshi and influenced directly by the Okinawan style of Shuri-te
Shuai chiao
Along with chin na, this form of Chinese wrestling possibly influenced the formation of Japanese jujutsu.
Shubaku
A system of empty-hand combat similar to jujutsu which is considered the forerunner of judo
Shuko
A type of feudal age brass knuckle used by the ninja. Besides the small metal plate that slipped over the knuckles, the shuko had spikes extending from the palm so an enemy's face could be raked. It was also useful for gripping when climbing walls.
Shuri te
One of the three original Okinawan karate schools, which derived its name from the city where it originated.
Shuriken
Bladed instruments commonly used as throwing weapons by the ninja
Shushin
The chief referee in a judo contest or a Japanese-style karate match
Shuto
"Knife hand" or "sword hand."