Wado Ryu Principles

Wado Ryu shares many general Karate-do principles with Okinawan styles. However, at its core, it contains fundamental concepts derived from Shindo Yoshin Ryu Jujutsu and other Japanese Bujutsu, not typically seen in Okinawan Karate.

Maai

Maai is often translated as “fighting distance,” but it also includes timing, rhythm, awareness, and intent. It’s not just physical distance — it’s also psychological space and timing.

If an opponent can strike you without moving their feet, the distance is too short. Good maai is when either the attacker must step in to reach or the defender can retreat safely with a half-step. This distance constantly fluctuates during combat and must be consciously adjusted.

Zanshin

Zanshin means “remaining mind” or “continuous awareness.” It is a key concept in martial arts.

It represents a calm, alert, and focused mental state — even after an exchange or when the fight seems over. It is critical during sparring, kata, and real self-defense situations. Look through your opponent; observe everything — not just their strikes.

Taisabaki

Taisabaki means “body movement” or “body shifting.” In Wado, it reflects efficient use of the body — with no wasted energy. It often involves subtle hip motion and off-line positioning for maximum efficiency.

Wado’s upright stances are inherited from Jujutsu and Kenjutsu, allowing better mobility and response.

Sen, Sensen no Sen, Go no Sen

These are concepts of timing:

  • Sen: Attack simultaneously with your opponent, displacing their strike with yours (e.g., Nagashizuki).
  • Sensen no Sen: Pre-emptive attack — strike as the opponent intends to attack.
  • Go no Sen: Counterattack immediately after the opponent’s technique, before they can recover.

Nagasu, Inasu, Noru, Irimi

  • Nagasu: Parrying or flowing with the attack, redirecting energy while countering.
  • Inasu: Dodging or deflecting with body movement, often by slipping under or around.
  • Noru: “Riding” or blending with the attacker’s movement.
  • Irimi: Entering — moving inside the attack line to seize the center.

San-mi-Ittai

Literally, “Three Elements in Unity”, this refers to the three essential body shifting strategies in Wado:

  • Ten-i: Moving position to avoid the line of attack
  • Ten-tai: Twisting or realigning the body to change the angle of impact
  • Ten-gi: Executing technique while allowing the attack to pass through

These are well illustrated in Wado’s Kihon Kumite.

Ki Ken Tai no Ichi

This principle emphasizes the unification of mind (ki), fist (ken), and body (tai). All movements should be coordinated in timing, intention, and physical delivery for maximum effectiveness.

Hei Jo Shin

A calm, settled spirit. This state of mental stillness allows you to remain unshaken by distractions — such as feints, intimidation, or aggression. It enables clear judgment and immediate action under pressure.

These principles form the technical and philosophical foundation of Wado Ryu Karate-do, guiding both training and personal development.