Our Strength
We study the Art of Isshin-ryu Karate which was created by Master Tatsuo Shimabuku of Okinawa. Our form of Isshin-ryu Karate is also called American Isshin-ryuKarate due to the changes and modifications that have been introduced over the years. In this program you will develop many skills, such as:
- Techniques and applications in blocking, punching, striking, kicking and stance,
- Mechanics and principles behind proper technique, balance, power and movement,
- Various Isshin-ryu katas (formal exercises) that teach self-defense in movement. Some of the katas utilize weapons such as the bo, nuchukus, sia, tonfa and sword.
- Sparring with other students in controlled matches,
- And last, various applications and principles in self-defense, pain compliance, and joint lock techniques.
The study of any martial art is a progression and personal journey. Mastery of the techniques comes through practice, practice, practice and time, time, time! However, the journey is not merely a technical one. As you progress in your journey, you will discover many things about the art and yourself that fascinate, stimulate and motivate you to personal growth and excellence. Many students discover and focus abilities that they never knew they had, build self-esteem and confidence, learn self-discipline, respect and goal setting. The relationships and friendships that you forge with like-minded students while in the art will be some of the relationships and friendships that are with you for life. We welcome you to enjoy our school!
Isshinryu Karate
Our Vision
Our vision is to empower the students that study with us. Our goal is to develop and impart a practical and comprehensive system of exercise and knowledge of self-defense. However, the martial arts is not just about technique. It's also about building the individual; their confidence, character, and leadership. Our vision is to empower our students to pursue excellence in the martial arts and in their personal lives.
Karate tournament
James Thaxton
Godan (5th Degree Black-Belt) - Master Thaxton is the founder and head instructor of Thaxton Martial Arts. His formal training is in the areas of Isshinryu Karate, Kickboxing and Kyusho Jitsu (pressure-point application). Sensei Thaxton first began his training in Isshinryu Karate under the instruction of the late Grand Master Ernie Temple. After obtaining advanced rank, he went on to work several years as an assistant instructor in Master Temple's program. During this time Sensei Thaxton also began training in Kickboxing also obtaining advanced rank. Eventually, Sensei Thaxton went on to teach Karate and self-defense for the Piscataway Board of Education Adult Education program where he started several adult and children programs in Karate and self-defense. Sensei Thaxton also studied Kyusho Jitsu under the instruction of Grand Master Mark Kline, applying pressure-point application to the Isshinryu system of katas. Master Kline promoted Sensei Thaxton to 4th dan. Sensei Thaxton was promoted to 5th dan by Hanshi Don Vitale, Hanshi Don Nash, Hanshi Ralph Passero and Hanshi Mark Kline. Master Thaxton continues to enthusiastically work with students teaching the art of Karate and self-defense.
Kamini Patel
Sandan (3rd Degree Black-Belt) - Sensei Patel commenced her Isshinryu training under Master Thaxton in 2009. She exemplifies the character, accountability, faithfulness, perseverance, and discipline that we look for in a student and particularly a black-belt. She is an amazing role model for the dojo. We are so proud to have Sensei Patel as part of our dojo.
James Vernon Gibbions Jr., M.D.
Shodan (1st Degree Black-Belt) - Sensei Gibbions is a deacon at the Cathedral International Second Baptist Church of Perth Amboy, NJ, an attending physician at the Family Medicine at Atlantic Health System - The Medical Institute of New Jersey, Cedar Knolls, husband and father of two. He commenced his Isshinryu training under Master Thaxton in 2010. He also holds Shodan rank in Shotokan. Dr. Gibbions exemplifies the character, accountability, perseverance, and discipline that we look for in a student and martial arts. He is an exemplary role model. We are proud to have Sensei Gibbions as part of our dojo.
Neev Gupta
Shodan (1st Degree Black-Belt ) - Sensei Gupta commenced his Isshinryu training at Thaxton Martial Arts in 2015. He is an honor student in multiple subjects, and also competes in soccer and tennis. Sensei Neev is a fierce and exciting competitor to watch. We can also proudly say of Sensei Neev that he's a hard working, very respectful and dedicated young man. He is an outstanding role model for his peers. We are so proud to have Sensei Neev as part of our dojo.
Meha D. Patel
Shodan Teiugu (1st Degree Black-Belt) - Sensei Patel commenced her Isshinryu training at Thaxton Martial Arts in 2018. She is an honor student in multiple subjects, also competes in volley ball, and now attends high school. Sensei Meha is an extraordinary young woman who can be described as gentle, modest, hard working, and very coachable. She is an outstanding role model for her peers. We are so proud to have Sensei Meha as part of our dojo.
Reyansh Gupta
Shodan Teiugu (1st Degree Black-Belt ) - Sensei Gupta commenced his Isshinryu training at Thaxton Martial Arts in 2017. He is an honor student in multiple subjects, and also competes in soccer. Sensei Rey is our youngest black-belt and the brother of Sensei Neev Gupta. We look forward to the bright future Sensei Rey brings. We are so proud to have Sensei Rey as part of our dojo.