Ko-do Ryu Karate and Kobudo can be defined as having two 'limbs' each with three branches. They are as follows:

1. Ko-do was not intended for use on a battlefield.
2. Ko-do was not designed to be openly used against a professional warrior or a trained opponent. However, practice with skilled training partners will be inevitable and necessary for the development of proficiency.
3. Ko-do was not intended be used in an arena or in a sporting contest.

1. Ko-do creates and maintains (holistic) fitness and acts as a form of recreation.
2. Ko-do facilitates introspection (meditation) and spiritual cultivation (standing or moving Zen).
3. Ko-do facilitates effective confidence, character and 'citizen' building, through training based on rigorous 'ritual combative' experiences, aimed at cultivating and improving the individual, and those with whom s/he associates. Lao Tzu the famous Chinese sage referred to such as 'the superior man' (man being non gender specific here).

1. As a method of exercise and recreation.
2. As a method of self-discipline and spiritual training.
3. As a method of personal ennoblement and a way to develop and maintain physical prowess.