Within Jikishin, we practice 3 main types of Kata:

	Single Kata
	Blocks, Strikes, Throws, Locks, Breakfalls etc., are practised against an imaginary opponent
	Pairs Kata
	Blocks, Strikes, Throws, Locks, Breakfalls etc., are practised with a partner or partners
	Weapons Kata
	Both single and pairs - practice in the use of each of the weapons in offensive and defensive situations

 

The benefits of Kata are in the development of the following attributes:

	Power
	Strength
	Rhythm
	Balance
	Muscle Memory
	Focus
	Grace

 

The Benefits of Kata

Traditionally, Kata is also a way for the knowledge of the school of martial arts to ensure that the body of knowledge is passed down the generations. By ensuring that Kata are performed in the same manner, and with the same moves, the knowledge is preserved and not dissipated. It is very important that the Kata are not changed, or each Kata will become distant from the original, and lessons within the original Kata are lost. Most Kata are quite old and are handed down from the original schools of martial arts.

Kata help the student to develop the many basic skills into more complex techniques by reinforcing the movements to perfect strikes, blocks, kicks, throws and locks. Embo (Advanced Locking Techniques) are a practical method of moving through a series of sequential locks and are related to Kata.

The main thrust of Kata is within the higher grades, although all students are taught the first Blocking Kata at White Belt. With all Kata, it is important to understand the Application of the Kata, as well as the movements. Only by understanding the application, will the student fully appreciate what result each move within the Kata is designed to produce.

Kata, within many of the Oriental Martial Arts is also considered a path to true enlightenment, and can also be a form of "moving meditation" called Dozen (pronounced Doh Zen).

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