Wado—what does it mean?

The usual translation is Way of Harmony. But how does that ‘translate’ into practice? Everyone has different ideas about this. Here are some of mine.

In sparring, the most efficient way to victory is to be in harmony with your opponent. That is, rather than counter force with force, harmonize with your opponent’s intentions to lead their force as you need it to go in order to open up opportunities. This is more easily seen in arts like judo and aikido, which place constant emphasis on blending with the opponent’s movements and guiding the momentum of attacks. But it’s equally true in karate, and especially in our style which emphasizes whip-like motion and fluidity.

But being in harmony with your opponent is not just executing taisabaki, it’s also being in mental harmony with your opponent. The best way to do this is to cultivate calmness in the ring. Relax your mind, relax your gaze, let each micro-movement of your opponent speak to you. Tension—lack of harmony—results in narrow focus. Narrow focus will cost you opportunities.

Written By: AJ – 30 year Wado practioner