Shorinjiryu Kudaka Karatedo is a modern Karate based on the Shorinjiryu Kenkokan style that was formed in the late 40's by Shihan Kori Hisataka of Japan. Dr. Hisataka was a master of the Martial arts. He studied various forms of Karate including Kudaka Ryu and Kobudo. After many years of mastering these arts Kori Hisataka started combining what he felt were the most positive aspects of each to form his style. He named it "Shorinjiryu Kenkokan Karatedo." The result was a martial art that was modern, flexible and effective.

Shorinjiryu Kenkokan utilizes body armour for full contact sparring to develop combat efficiency and positioning, evading and striking with the vertical fist and the heel of the foot.

Many traditional styles of Karate are hard in nature focussing on power and strength. Their training is designed to enhance these qualities. Their stances are traditionally strong and hard and their main defence in a combat situation is hard blocking . Practitioners limbs are developed to absorb the energy of the impact.

Hisataka's new style changed this focus. He knew from experience that the best way of defending against any form of strike was to evade it. He also taught that if the evasion is executed with scientific method, the defender could position themselves such that they are able to counter the attack of their opponent, thus gaining the upper hand (tai sabaki). The focus of the training is to instill an instinct in the Karateka to evade and counter an attack.

This focus of evading strikes as opposed to absorbing their energy on ones limbs makes this style a good choice for people of all ages. As people age the ability for their bodies to absorb a lot of energy from strikes diminishes.