Kata is often described as a sequence of karate techniques organised into a pre-arranaged fight against imaginary opponents. Shotokan katas are much more than this, they are a combination of kicks, punches, sweeps, blocks and throws with body movements in various directions including stepping, twisting, turning, falling to the ground and jumping.
Shotokan katas are not for demonstration or show but are for the karateka to practice the application and perfection of real fighting techniques while enhancing correct posture, form and timing.
As karateka mature into the martial art, more emphasis is placed on the health benefits of practicing kata with the promotion of fitness, stamina, flexibility, agility, life long learning and perfection of character. There are 27 katas in the Shotokan style..
Shotokan katas are not for demonstration or show but are for the karateka to practice the application and perfection of real fighting techniques while enhancing correct posture, form and timing.
As karateka mature into the martial art, more emphasis is placed on the health benefits of practicing kata with the promotion of fitness, stamina, flexibility, agility, life long learning and perfection of character. There are 27 katas in the Shotokan style..
Kihon is a Japanese term meaning "basic" or "fundamental". The term refers to the basic techniques taught and practiced as the foundation of Shotokan karate. The practice and mastery of kihon is essential to all advanced training. Kihon also includes the karateka fostering the correct spirit and attitude at all times.
Shotokan karate training is renowned for extended periods of kihon training. Kihons are practiced as floor exercises where the same technique or combination of techniques are repeated multiple times as the students move back and forth across the dojo. This style of practice is used to ingrain the techniques into the muscle memory of the karateka and strenghten the body.
Kihons also take the form of pre-arranged partner drills. Two students face each other and alternate between being an attacker and defender while executing punching and kicking techniques. This approach combines repetition with distance, timing and correct technique training. Targets for punching and kicking, such as bags and shields are generally used at more advanced stages of kihon training to strengthen muscles, bones and skin.
Shotokan karate training is renowned for extended periods of kihon training. Kihons are practiced as floor exercises where the same technique or combination of techniques are repeated multiple times as the students move back and forth across the dojo. This style of practice is used to ingrain the techniques into the muscle memory of the karateka and strenghten the body.
Kihons also take the form of pre-arranged partner drills. Two students face each other and alternate between being an attacker and defender while executing punching and kicking techniques. This approach combines repetition with distance, timing and correct technique training. Targets for punching and kicking, such as bags and shields are generally used at more advanced stages of kihon training to strengthen muscles, bones and skin.
Kihon
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