Wado is the style of Japanese karate founded in 1934 by Prof. HIRONORI OHTSUKA (Meizin Judan-Black Belt). Wado is one of the four major styles of Japanese karate.
The name of the style is Wado Karate Do.
“Wa” means peace or calm.
“Do” means way.
Wado is different from other styles because Ohstuka Sensei taught students to use Taisabaki (body shifting) and Nagashi (evasion) which evade the full force of an attack.
At the same time, they position the body for a counterattack. Master Ohstuka included in his new syllabus Jiyu Kumite (free fighting technique). He has developed Idori-no kata (kneeling defense), Tanto-dori (knife defense) and Tachi-sword (sword defense). The ultimate goal of Wado is to develop a peaceful yet fully aware mind that is able to react to any situation.
EXPLANATION OF LOGO:
The logo of Wado is a pigeon that first teaches us strength and then leads a peaceful life. This suggests that where there is strength there is peace.
PHYSIQUE:
Wado style requires a slim, medium height, and flexible physique with an intellectual and tricky mental attitude. It is famous for its fast punches and kicks with an upright stance.
FOUNDER OF WADO:
Wado karate was founded by Prof. Hironori Ohtsuka (Black Belt 10th degree 1892 1982) in 1934 by altering some of the movements and incorporating some Jujutsu techniques. He created a style of Karate with the major physical characteristics of speed, mobility, efficiency, and effectiveness. His knowledge is still passing from instructors to students.