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Kata Principles: From the Pinnacle of Karate
Kata (forms) are formal exercises consisting of a series of techniques performed in sequence and arranged in geometric patterns. They include all the various hand, foot and body shifting techniques used in kicking, punching and blocking. The katas were conceived centuries ago and were devised by masters in antiquity and have been handed down from the past.
Katas are based on the existence of four to eight imaginary attackers, and provide practice and technical perfection in meeting an attack from any quarter. There are forms which are relatively simple and basic while others require a high degree of skill.
Some forms are designed for speed; others are made for heavy and powerful techniques.
Katas are the mainstay of the style under which you study. Without the katas you would have a very difficult time learning how to use the techniques you are taught, and in understanding what they are for.
The katas were formulated as styles of combat and as a means of practicing these styles. Through kata, the entire body is freed to experience a greater physical and mental interaction and unity. To be able to achieve this, the forms should be taught, performed and perfected in the following three major categories:
1ST: MIND CATEGORY- to perform the kata and achieve perfect physical coordination (mastery of form). This should lead to a "mental and physical awareness and understanding" in addition to a physical capability.
2ND: SPIRIT CATEGORY- to physically be able to interpret each movement (bunkai) with an opponent verbally, with its physical application, "in a state of mental concentration and vigor" for each movement.
3RD: UNIVERSE CATEGORY- to physically interpret each movement as a "whole" (without thought) against an opponent or opponents in rapid succession.
Mental and spiritual awareness will develop through constant repetition and perfection of all three categories. Shuri-ryu katas should be practiced one at a time in the three major categories listed above and in the order of the three practice methods mentioned following.
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Katas mentioned in the first practice method should be perfected in all three of the major categories. Katas mentioned in the second practice method should be perfected in all three of the major categories before moving to the third practice method, which should also be perfected in all three major categories.
1. Taikyoku, Wunsu, Anaku, Naihanchi One and Two, and Tsue sho katas will instill physical perfection, balance, speed, power and form.
2. Empi sho, Bassai-dai, Gopei sho, Dan Enn Sho and Sanchin katas will instill mental and physical coordination.
3. Nandan sho, Naihanchi Three, Tekatana, Kanku sho and Ten sho katas will instill mental and spiritual awareness.
Since katas were designed particularly for enlightenment (satori), it is obvious that those who practice the katas in their original form (without changes) will achieve a much more overwhelming sense of oneness than those who practice a changed or homemade kata.
When performing kata, the tensing and relaxing of all body areas and control points where energy flows freely will have a strong therapeutic effect on the entire body. A most important thought to consider concerning kata is tha one needs to practice their kata forms with perseverance and diligence in order to achieve a harmonius relationship with nature. When one practices in nature, they will not be able to detach themselves from it.
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