Training - Kata
Kata (型 or 形 ) directly translates to "form", and consist of a pattern of movements that are used to simulate a fight. Kata is often referred to as the dictionary of karate, and is said to be a reference guide to the techniques contained within it. The goal of kata is similar to that of kihon, in that it develops techniques through repetition. However, the techniques practiced in kata are developed in a way which is more practical, and they are incorporated into other techniques, to understand how they can be used within sparring or self-defense scenarios.
To truly understand and learn from kata a student must be able to visualize and feel the movements and techniques contained within it. In the early stages of development kata is used primarily as a tool to teach techniques and principles of karate, however as the karateka starts to develop the focus shifts away from the techniques and turns more towards the applications and deeper principles contained within the kata. This is known as bunkai.
Kata can also be done as a partner drill, where the techniques and movements within the kata are broken down and developed into a set of pre-arranged movements in which students can use to develop distance, timing and accuracy for kumite and self-defence.
View a list of kata practiced within our style.