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While in the old days tameshi wari was the only way to test the efficiency of the techniques, in modern karatedo the use of protective equipment allows students to truly test their techniques on moving targets. The closest thing to a secret in karatedo is undoubtably breathing. Breathing plays an essential part in the union of the mind and body and in producing the inner power; it frees the mind by bringing it peace and serenity. Breathing brings harmony between the mind and the universe. During the retention of each breath, the body is full of ki and the mind is clear, free, and full of nothingness (mushin) which is equated to ku or kara, the emptiness. In this state the mind is at one with the universe, located everywhere and nowhere at the same time. It is this third stage of the respiration process—retention—which is the most important in generating power and in realizing the union of mind and body, the ultimate goal of man.

2 What is Karatedo?

1. Principles and Aims of Karatedo

In essence, karatedo is a set of techniques and mental attitudes systematized and codified in a martial art which, through a rigorous and systematic training of the mind and the body, strive to achieve knowledge of oneself and others to ultimately create a state of complete harmony between oneself and the universe. It is a discipline which advocates the development of a strong body and the awakening of the mind by a constant search for self-perfection both physically and spiritually in order to fully realize oneself.