Kata And Types Of Kata

Blocking, punching, striking and kicking --- the fundamental techniques of karate --- are combined in a logical manner in the KATA, the formal exercises. Since ancient times, the various kata have been the core of karate, having been developed and perfected by old masters through long training and experience.

The Kata, about fifty of which, have come down to the present day, can be roughly divided into two groups. On the one hand are those that are seemingly simple but also exhibit grandeur, composure and dignity. Through practice of this type of kata, the karateka can build up his physique, tempering his bones and forging strong muscles.

The other group is suggestive of the flight of a swallow and is appropriate for the acquisition of fast reflexes and quick movements.

Execution of each kata, that is, the leg movements, is along a predetermined performance line (Embusen). Though one practices without a visible opponent, he should have in mind disposing of enemies coming from four directions—or eight directions---and the possibility of a changing performance line.

Since the kata contain all of the elements essential for exercising the whole body, they are ideal for that purpose. Practicing alone or in a group, anyone can follow this way, in accordance with his own level of ability and regardless of age. It is through these formal exercises that the karateka can learn the art of self-defense, enabling him to face a dangerous situation naturally and expediently, but the degree of skillfulness is the determining factor.

There is no direct translation for the word “KATA”. However, the best way of translation it is by the word “FORM”. Kata itself represents combat against several opponents, although these are invisible and exist only in the imagination of the exponent and the spectator. The objects are total self defense, by a sequence of set attaching or defensive moves. Modern karate developed as sport in its current form around the turn of the century, although “free sparring” as it is known today was not introduced until the 1930s. Before that, the only kata contests held were aimed at trying to find the best karateka expertise.

Depending on the level of training, there are various practice objectives; correct techniques, correct breathing, good stance, perfect timing or rhythm and precision of movement within the spaces marked out in the Hall. There are between 30 and 50 recognized kata (the number varies according to whether and how many of the different kata styles are included). In Shotokan karate, there are four different groups of kata (excluding pre-training exercises, such as TAIKYO-KATAS, which are not dealt here); 

Group 1:              Heian 1 – 5, Tekki 1  or basic kata elementary grade.

Group 2:              Bassai-Dai  Jion, Empi, Kanku-Dai, Hungetsu or advance kata up to Master Grade.

Group 3:              Bassi-sho, Kanku-sho, Jitte, Mekyu, Sochin, etc, or first grade master kata.

Group 4:              Unsu, Gojushiho-Dai, Gojushiho-sho or special kata for Grand Masters and Kata specialist.        

Every level of training has its own set kata forms. This also explains why an advanced kata performed by an elementary grade pupil will always be marked down. Advanced kata demands the absolute precision of movement and perfection of rhythm which a relative novice cannot possibly have attained. For this reason, our golden rule is:

BETTER A PERFECT LOWER – GRADE KATA -------- THAN A MEDICORE ADVANCED KATA!

Basic kata is aimed at elementary training objectives, such as the development of a firm stance, good defense and confident movements. 

The more advance kata forms, of which Empi is s perfect example, promote the development of lightning-quick movements and a rich variety of reflex responses. The simpler forms of basic kata came about because advance kata, once the only form of kata in existence, proved to be too difficult for the beginner, so the original kata forms were broken down into their individual components. In this connection, it is interesting to note that FUNAKOSHI speaks of three years in terms of the period required to master a single kata. Even if a kata demonstration appears to be successful after several weeks’ intensive training, “mastery” in the true sense of karate will still be light-years away.