Wadoryu

In 1939, Hironori Otsuka established Wado-ryu, which translates to “the way of harmony” in Japanese. There is a strong emphasis on harmony and peacefulness of mind. 

Whereas most styles of Karate focus on powerful attacks, Wado practitioners seek to evade blows. Students learn to shift their bodies to avoid or reduce the impact of blows and strikes are incorporated as a counter-attack. 

Unlike most other Karate styles, Wado also incorporates Jujitsu-style techniques such as joint locks and throws. The stances are mostly natural and students learn 15 kata.