Focus on KATA
Kata means form, instruction! Kata forms are sequences of movements put together in an overall pattern that we have to memorize. The memorized moves give us a time capsule on how self-defence was approached in ancient times. Above that kata is a medium, instruction methodology to be trained and analyzed with a master/grandmaster and after making pattern of moves (enbusen) and combos together, giving you like an inside movie on how to proceed your moves and defenses against several opponents.
It should be said that kata training includes the essential basic elements of concrete kihon training including elements of direction, change of point of view, techniques, speed, power and rhythm! All these elements put together puts you in the center of a simulated fight, that done properly, puts you on the edge of your skill level and never hurts you. However devastating finishing blows are practiced!
On a higher level the sequence analysis (BUNKAI) can lead the individual, the group, the club,... to many useful discoveries for practical self-defense, some say hidden or secret forms,...we say these forms are there just to be practiced and lead you to directly applicable chains of techniques in different scenarios.
Going back to our language analogy, kata can be likened to the grammar of a language.
It should be said that kata training includes the essential basic elements of concrete kihon training including elements of direction, change of point of view, techniques, speed, power and rhythm! All these elements put together puts you in the center of a simulated fight, that done properly, puts you on the edge of your skill level and never hurts you. However devastating finishing blows are practiced!
On a higher level the sequence analysis (BUNKAI) can lead the individual, the group, the club,... to many useful discoveries for practical self-defense, some say hidden or secret forms,...we say these forms are there just to be practiced and lead you to directly applicable chains of techniques in different scenarios.
Going back to our language analogy, kata can be likened to the grammar of a language.