One of the most important elements in the practice of karate-do is 'kata'. Within the various kata we find all the offensive and defensive techniques employed by various Ryu or traditions of a karate system. Kata then, can be likened to an encyclopaedia containing various techniques and postures used in a particular combative system. In addition to techniques and postures kata teaches balance, coordination, control and agility whilst developing mental abilities such as focus, concentration and visualisation.
It is not enough however, just to acquire knowledge of the various kata in terms of knowing which stance or technique follows in a sequence of movements. That is just the beginning of kata practise. To really know a kata one must practice it tirelessly for many months if not years to understand what the kata is trying to impart to its user. |
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Prolonged and intense training in a kata is the best way of learning the movements and is the start of internalising techniques, stances and rhythm within its sequences. It is a common mistake for students to go no further than this first stage of memorizing the moves in a kata, not realising the true value of kata practise lies in diligent repetition over many years.
Even after many months of repeating a kata, a student’s work is far from over. One must also know the principles behind the techniques and postures used. To explore the techniques effectively one must use a partner to understand combative elements not present in solitary practice, namely distance, angle and timing collectively termed in Japanese as ‘ma-ai’. The practice of analysing the application of a kata’s techniques using a partner is termed ‘Bunkai-kumite’.
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