Kata has been called the most
important part of traditional karate
training. Until sport karate became
popular in the mid-20th century, large
formal group classes in an organized
dojo did not exist, and there were no
books, videos, or seminar tours to
spread karate knowledge. In fact, there
were several times when karate training
was banned altogether. In a society
where relatively few people could read
or write, no written records were kept.
The masters of the time would have very
few hand picked students (Nabe Matsumura
had only one), and training was usually
done secretly at night. In order to
preserve the style and techniques, they
created formalized series of techniques
that could be memorized and passed on.
These forms, or kata, were simulated
combat against multiple opponents coming
from different directions. The student
would practice turning, blocking, and
counter attacking against the imaginary
opponents. Every technique in a
particular system could be found
somewhere in the kata of the style,
along with “bunkai” – hidden
applications that would not be visible
by someone merely observing the kata
without inside knowledge. In addition,
kata provided the student with something
that could be practiced alone when not
with the Sensei. As sport karate became
much more prevalent, kata was pushed out
of the spotlight in favor of the more
exciting kumite (sparring) matches. Kata
was still practiced, but more as a
formality, or with more emphasis on
aesthetics and show for tournament
competition instead of practical
applications. Because of this, many
westerners today believe that kata
training is outdated and impractical.
Nothing could be farther from the truth.
If kata is taught and performed
correctly, the bunkai can be unlocked,
and much deeper understanding of the
techniques is achieved. Also, kata helps
teach focus, speed, and coordination, as
well as how to blend from one technique
to another smoothly and powerfully.
KAICHO ISAO
KISE
(8th Degree Black Belt)
