Pickard"s Karate 321-676-7585
Jackie Pickard, a 6th degree black belt in Okinawan Goju- Ryu karate. I began training in Syracuse, NY in 1975 under Shihan Frank Van Lenten. I have been training under Hanshi Greg Tearney since 1979 and have continued to train with him. I opened my first dojo, karate school, in Palm Bay, Fl in 1991. I have been teaching martial arts in this area ever since. He promoted me to "Kyoshi", polished expert on August 3, 2007.
History of GoJu-Ryu
GoJu -Ryu is interpreted as "hard-soft style". It is a style that combines the "hard fists" of Shao-
lin Kenpo with the "soft palms" of Pakua. GoJu-Ryu combines fast, circular, openhanded blocking with powerful punching and striking techniques. The kicks in GoJu-Ryu are practical as they are kept low in order to be more effective. The use of sweeping, throwing, and joint locks is also emphasized in this style. GoJu-Ryu is a system that consists of kata or forms, sparring, and self-defense. This system does rely heavily on kata as a major aspect of training. Unique to GoJu -Ryu is the use of breathing forms to develop strong bodies and inner strength.
My Philosophy of Teaching
I believe in positive reinforcement while teaching martial arts and to develop each student as an individual focusing on his individual strengths. I believe in physical conditioning for the body and the use of kata to sharpen the mind.
Resume
I graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education.
I taught physical education in the Brevard County School District for 7 years and I have been teaching P.E. at Calvary Chapel Christian School for the past 5 years. I worked for ProHealth and Fitness Center for several years as an exercise specialist.
Contact Jackie at 321-676-7585
