The three major karate styles each have distinct breathing techniques and kata (methods). Masters who have trained for more than 50 years say the following:
“Tighten the body with breathing – this is the essence of karate that precedes kata. Short movements require short breaths; long movements require long breaths. By adjusting breathing to the movement, one never tires. Strike in the rhythm of exhalation. This allows power to flow smoothly and effectively. Conversely, when attacked, harden the body with breath as if turning into stone to break the opponent’s strike.”
Mr Sadayuki Taira
(Naha-te kei Goju-ryu / Goju-ryu Hanshi 9th Dan, Okinawa Karatedo Gojukai Meibukan Taira Dojo)
“In Uechi-ryu, we exhale the naturally inhaled air in a short burst to tighten the lower abdomen from above and below, while also tightening the sphincter so that air does not enter the abdomen. This builds a body capable of enduring and absorbing the pain of external attacks. As a result, the attacker will instead receive a counterattack.”
Mr Haruyoshi Shimabukuro
(Uechi-ryu / Uechi-ryu Hanshi 9th Dan, Uechi-ryu Karatedo Kyokai Naha Minami Shubukan)
“In Shorinji-ryu, kata demand explosive speed, so breathing remains natural. The key difference from the other two schools is that we conceal the intake and release of air. Practicing kata is a spiritual discipline that trains you to face space as your opponent. By confronting your own mind, you cultivate a self that remains undisturbed by any circumstance and requires no external validation.“
Mr Takeshi Nakazato
(Shuri/Tomari-te kei / Shorinji-ryu Hanshi 9th Dan/Shorinji-ryu the 2nd generation of the Soke, Zen Okinawa Shorinji-ryu Karatedo Kyokai)
What is common among all styles is that one never initiates attacks — every kata begins with defense. Okinawa Karate is built upon a spirit of peace, expressed in maxims such as “There is no first strike in karate”, “Do not be hit, and do not hit. Avoiding conflict is the fundamental principle”, and “The goal is peace without incident.”
AloJapan.com