Doing kata in the traditional manner requires a calm mind and steady stance. There is a difference between the glitzy, acrobatic extreme kata and the older more sedate kata of old. The older kata do not require Olympic level flexibility and gymnastic ability. Rather, they require the elements that make an artist a warrior. Here are some tips to keep your kata looking more traditional.
- Stay relaxed in the motions and movements.
- Look before you move into the next step.
- Keep your movements crisp and sharp.
- Maintain great stances according to the kata’s requirements. Usually these are low and stable.
- Breathing should be smooth and even.
- Show power and fluid grace but do not strike too hard or else you’ll loose the essential flow
- Be balanced through your stance transitions
- Kiai at the right time with intensity
- Single leg stances should be held slightly longer than two-legged stances to demonstrate control
Two other elements for tournament competitors:
- Begin the kata before you step into the ring
- The kata doesn’t end until you’re dismissed
Do you have other tips for performing a traditional kata? Add them to the comments.
