There are three basic elements to the study of Shotokan Karate. The first is Kihon Waza, which means Basic Techniques, and Tai Sabaki which means Body Mobility. The second is Kata, or Form, which describes the practice of performing detailed sequences of basic techniques joined into a single continuous performance. The third is Kumite, or Sparring, which describes various forms of pre-arranged or freestyle training against an adversary.
Basic technique is of course the foundation for everything else and therefore constant and committed practice of basics is the only way to build the skill base necessary for the proper study of Kata and Kumite. That said, Kata is the element that interests me in this particular article.
Sensei Eneoda (9th Dan) was a great supporter of Kata practice. He is quoted as saying …
“Live the Kata. Use all your power as if in life or death. This is something that sport karate does not have. This is why Kata is important. The body is trained, the mind is trained, the understanding of the technique deepens. It is very important that the student understands the application of technique. Many times students do not understand Kata. They cannot see the meaning of the movement They see slow, broad movement. They may think Kata has no purpose.”
As the student advances in his study, his understanding of the technique becomes deeper, more profound. Kata is for understanding each technique’s purpose and application; to understand the many, many uses the techniques have and how to apply them. Without Kata training, one is not following the way of martial art karate …….
