
Kata

KATA, in Japanese means “form”. It is a system of training, practising a detailed series of movements choreographed into sets of patterns for an individual/group defending and counter-attacking imaginary opponent/s in different directions and distances. One of the advantages of kata training is that it does not allow the practitioner to attack or defend on their favourite stances or techniques.

Kata should be practiced based on the following points.
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Kata should start and end with REI [Bow]
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Correct basic techniques
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Getting into the mindset; projecting confidence and maintaining the speed and power from start to end
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Breathing
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Breathe efficiently by adjusting the rate and timing to the situations’ demands
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DO NOT hold your breath
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Dachi [Stances]
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Focus on how the different muscles of the body interrelate with one another during the performance of the kata, bringing about stability and strong stances
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Posture
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Must be stable, well-balanced and similar in every direction throughout the performance
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Chakugen [Focus]
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Focus on your movements.
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Keep your focus on an imaginary opponent
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Remove all forms of distraction and internalise your kata
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Bunkai [Analysis and Application]
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Analysing and breaking down the movements of kata into defense against your opponent/s. It is important that a practitioner be able to apply a single technique in different situations and attacks
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Training in Bunkai should include distances, timing, rhythm, and fluidity [Maai, Ritsudo and Nagare]
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Without Bunkai, kata becomes merely a dance
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Zanshin [Awareness]
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When practising kata, the practitioner’s body posture should be in a state of awareness after executing a technique [relaxed awareness]
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Repetition – to perfect the kata
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As the saying goes… “Practice makes Perfect”. The same goes for kata. To perfect a kata, repetition is essential.
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