As I said in Creating a kata: Part 1, you create a kata in order to:

In terms of the latter 2, this is not an exercise to be entered into lightly. That you are "filling a void" or "improving" something is a big assumption. Nonetheless one can see some obvious examples, eg. with beginner kata; finding newer ways of teaching beginners how to acquire basic coordination and... Read More

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When Kanryo Higaonna died, Miyagi is quoted as saying that he felt he was "groping his way along an unlit road".

To fully understand this metaphor you have to be in a completely isolated place like in the outback here in Australia where on a cloudy night there is no light - zero (where in most places on Earth there is a distant light on the horizon from one city/town or other). Even as you walk along a well demarcated road you soon find yourself straying into the bushes. More than... Read More

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Recently one of my colleagues on the Traditional Fighting Arts Forum referred us to the "24 Fighting Chickens" site which contains useful advice on "How to create a kata".

Now not everyone who creates a good kata was himself/herself a world beater or the most knowledgable. I've maintained before that kata is like a poem or piece of music (see my article "Kata: art or science") however not every kata has to be an "Eine kleine nachtmusik" to be effective.

I think what I found... Read More

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There are many different approaches to the martial arts. Especially these days. Many practice for self defense, many for health and exercise, others for self improvement and to further disclipline. Some systems are more fighting disciplines than arts, and others are more art form. The Do or Tao in the martial arts advacates the martial arts as a way. Perhaps a way of spiritual fulfillment, self discovery, discipline, self realization, or whatever else the individual is striving to achiev... Read More

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