Introduction to Wado Ryu Karate
The name of the martial art form of wado ryu karate has originated from its original name which was Wado-Ryu Karate-Do. This exclusive style was developed by the famous Japanese martial arts leader Hironori Ohtsuka Sensei (1892 - 1982) in the year 1934. The meaning of the term Wado-Ryu is “way of harmony” or “way of peace” in Japanese, while Karate-Do means "way of the empty hand". This meaning of the name signifies that this form was founded in order to serve as a technique to solve problems by following a non-violent approach and without the use of any kinds of weapons.
Hironori Ohtsuka Sensei had formulated the techniques of wado ryu karate after he had completed studying the martial art forms of Jiu-jitsu and Shotokan. However, the style which emerged as a result was a more soft style, which used less aggressive methods. It is said that this from of karate is one of the fastest martial art forms which follows the principles of 'Nagashi and Irimi'. Another important characteristic is that this form has scope for partner-work unlike other karate styles.
