KataKata
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 Because of this, many westerners today believe that kata training is outdated and impractical.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.
