To say that “Kata is the heart and soul of Traditional Karate“, would not be an understatement. Through the repetitive and systematic practice of Kata the practitioner will in time acquire its many benefits. Physically the solo practice of Kata will build a strong and agile body, that takes the techniques of Karate to the extreme. Challenging the boundaries of your own physicality is essential to developing your body as a weapon. The mental skills that are acquired with consistent practice are: 1. Zanshin (a continuing mind) 2. Strategy and Tactics 3. How the many techniques of Karate can be applied 4. A mental and physical fusion. The physical or mental benefits of Karate are unique to each practitioner, and is reflective of the duration and intensity of ones practice.
These previous blog entries on Kata, will provide some necessary background:
http://smiddleton.blogspot.com/2008/08/kata-1-of-3.html
http://smiddleton.blogspot.com/2008/08/kata-2-of-4.html
http://smiddleton.blogspot.com/2008/09/kata-3-of-4.html
http://smiddleton.blogspot.com/2008/11/kata-4-of-4.html
Traditional Karate primarily uses percussive techniques as a way of defending oneself. Though limiting yourself entirely to studying striking techniques is a narrow minded approach. The following list provides other more subtle advantages of studying Kata.
1. Shime Waza ( constriction techniques).
2. Kansetsu Waza (joint locking techniques).
3. Nage Waza (throwing techniques).
4. Kyusho Jitsu (vital point striking).
“Understanding Kata” and its many mental and physical benefits is crucial in preserving Karate that is inherently Traditional.
Doryoku,
Scott
