Students searching for a strong workout and practice defending themselves need to look no further than the Ohio Shito-Ryu Karate Association.

Founded in spring 2002, the shito-ryu club has become one of the largest martial arts clubs on campus. Approximately 30 people have enrolled, including undergraduate and graduate students as well as professors.

“Students enroll in our club for various reasons,” said Geoffrey Buckner, president of the association. “I think most college students want to learn how to get out of a possible incident as quickly as possible without throwing punches and risking injury.”

The club’s mission statement focuses on promoting health and self-defense through the martial arts.

In a typical practice, students work on various fight techniques, take-downs, katas or patterns of movement, and sparring – an attack and defense technique. Brick and board breaking is taught once each month.

“We are always progressing so that students learn something new each time,” Buckner said. “Students feel great about themselves when they come off the floor, which shows how much our members enjoy the club.”

The club also teaches students the history of shito-ryu – one of the four major international styles of karate which originated in Japan.

“I enjoy the exercise, and it’s different from most other sports in that you learn about another culture,” said Anne Marie Cannon, a member of the club.

Buckner said students interested in joining are encouraged to come observe. Meetings are held in Brown Gym at Larkins Hall from 5-6 p.m. on Wednesdays and from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Sundays.

“My favorite thing about the club is the people that are part of it,” said Rob Messinger, vice president of the group. “They make teaching karate a fun and rewarding experience.”

The club also gives students a chance to get involved with the community by bringing events to the campus area. It will host the state-qualifying round for the USA National Karate-Do Federation on Saturday, with winners earning a spot to the nationals. The federation is a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee.

The competition will allow spectators to view different styles of karate, and the club members are hoping to make the event a martial arts festival as well.

“The event will be held at Larkins Hall and will be open to the public,” Buckner said. “We expect to bring in 400 to 500 competitors from Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia.”

Students who plan to join the club must sign an insurance waiver and pay a $40 fee per quarter.