Isshin-ryu Karate emphasizes:

1. Kicks and punches that are thrown from natural stances eliminating wasted motions and giving you split-second advantages over opponents using some of the other styles.
2. Stresses proficiency with both hand and foot techniques, equally, making it a more versatile form of Karate because you have no weak points.
3. "Close in" techniques useful in "street fighting" making it a more realistic style of Karate.
4. Snap punches and snap kicks, where the limb does not fully extend and is immediately retracted (preventing excessive strain on the knees and elbows) permitting you to move in and out quickly without committing yourself to a disadvantageous position should you miss or misjudge.
5. Blocks with muscular portion of the forearm rather than the bone.
6. Fist formed with the thumb on top rather than wrapped over the first two fingers (this strengthens the wrist to help prevent buckling at the wrist on impact).
7. The vertical punch, which increases speed and can be focused at any given point.

Overall, Isshin-ryu is more adaptable to the American physique and temperament than other more rigid styles because Master Shimabuku designed it to follow natural body movements.

More information on Isshin-ryu Karate-do is available: