Purpose of Kata:

There is a double purpose to the Kata. On one hand it works the movements and postures in given situations; to have an "inner-peace" apprenticeship. On the other hand it helps discover the fundamental principles of the martial arts, such as management of distances, attitude, balance and the coordination of movements.

With Kihon (basic techniques), the study of katas is another approach to Kumite (fight). There are various types of katas: "fighting katas", "respiratory katas" and "artistic katas". The objective of the fighting katas is the apprenticeship of technique in order to use it in battle. The respiratory katas puts an emphasis on “breathing”. They aim at “making the energies circulate”. Finally, the artistic katas are executions of spectacular techniques putting forth above all “flexibility”.

What is the use of a kata?

Kata stimulates fights against several opponents. The strategy developed in every kata is full of teachings. One of the reasons to practice the kata is that it is indisputably an excellent source of physical exercise, which reinforces and tones the muscles, legs, arms and energy. A student who practices kata develops better coordination and rhythm, learns to move according to various positions and points of balance. He learns to make the transition between the defensive and offensive status, while giving attention to his breathing, his concentration and his focus. During the practice of katas we find isotonic and isometric muscular movements. Katas is an excellent source of cardiovascular conditioning if they are properly performed with continuous, non-stop repetitions. The kata is an inexhaustible source. To drink from it, one must dig deep within.