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outdated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)
