Kata is one of the most complicated and most important tools for the development of the karate-ka as a whole. First, kata is a physical exercise that achieves a mental state. In the beginning we learn speed, balance, timing and strength. Second, kata’s mental exercise develops concentration, self awareness, self-confidence, and reflex. A series of movements placed together in a geometrical pattern kata provides multiple kick, punch, sweep, throw,
holds, pins, chokes, joint locks, applied pressure, bone bending, and blocking drills which flow. Most traditional kata were developed from real life and death encounters both on the battle fields, home and personal defense, and as history shows us the use by personal body guards of royalty who defended against attacks upon these entitled figures. Kata practice for those properly trained in this area discover that this in and of it self is one of the most phenomenal training tools at their hands. Multi directional attacks, against multiple attackers in rapid succession goes beyond the mere one on one confrontations that are often not extended upon. The proper applications of karate-do’s moving forces, going beyond the blanket interpretations, and discovering real Budo based arts intertwined within the kata adds life and excitement to your training. Not only is kata the mainstay of the system, it is an practical educator on how to defend against real street confrontations. Kata training is an enabler for the sport competitor teaching speed, power, form, angles, body shifting, jumping, side stepping, Plyometrics, Kinesics and timing drills.
Kata presented by a competent instructor affords the student a mind blowing experience exposing a vast field of opportunities that the uninitiated become lost and abandon because they were not shown the true way
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