Meiyo, or honor (名誉), is a core principle of karate that emphasizes living with integrity, respect, and humility. In karate, it means upholding the traditions of the art, respecting your sensei, dojo, and fellow karateka, and striving for personal growth. It’s about using your skills responsibly—never for bullying or showing off—but for self-defense and protecting others when needed. Meiyo also involves humility in victory, grace in defeat, and being a role model through your actions both in and out of the dojo.
Practicing Meiyo is as much about your mindset as it is about your technique. It’s reflected in small but powerful actions, like bowing to show respect, training with dedication, and helping others improve. Beyond karate, Meiyo shapes your character in daily life by encouraging fairness, honesty, and courage in doing what’s right. To live with honor is to embody the values of karate not only during practice but in every moment of your life.
