The launch my my FREE Kata Lab Lite online class series has met with better than expected success. It seems you want more. So, I’m in the process of filming the next online course. This course will continue to introduce you to and have you explore the spiritual aspects of Kata. (See Endnote # 1)
Here’s a sneak peak at what lies ahead in my Kata Laboratory FREE online classes: (From “What’s Ahead” class video):
Curious? Want more – now? You can see some teaser articles and videos using these convenient links:
Remember to Think * Sweat * Experiment with Kata in my Kata Lab.
Try a FREE mini Kata Lab Course – Kata Analysis Using Time As A 4th Dimension Of Distance. Very innovative, exciting all for FREE in the comfort of your own home, using your system’s kata! Enroll for FREE using this convenient link: https://kata-rx.teachable.com/p/course-1-kata-laboratory-introduction
Sensei John Szmitkowski
Endnotes: 1. I stress that kata has “Three Battles” or aspects, a physical aspect, a spiritual aspect and an environmental aspect. Thus analysis of kata, a process called “Bunkai” must be conducted on the same three levels. You may find more using this link: https://senseijohn.me/2013/05/20/kata-lab-101-three-states-of-bunkai/
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If you enjoy my FREE Kata Lab experience, please consider a small donation to help defray costs. Thank-you & remember to THINK – SWEAT – Experiment with your Kata.
This in-depth FREE Kata Lab course analyzes your Kata from the standpoint of “Time As A 4th Dimension Of Distance.” Using three analytical tools, Sensei John shows you how understand that as your physical speed diminishes with age, you can become quicker through a deep understanding of efficient use of time. All found within your Kata! Understand how time affects distance through the lens of Kata’s
– interim movements;
– sequence analysis, and;
– rhythmic analysis.
Martial mythology contains tales of the “old masters” who seemingly without moving can defeat an aggressor. Now you can grasp how they simply understood the efficient use of time to offset the dilatory physical effects of age.
There’s nothing to loose and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. How? It’s FREE! Why? Sensei John is so certain you will not have analyzed your kata from the standpoint of time and the such an examination will be a catalyst for more Kata Lab experimentation, that after you finish the course you will want to make a small donation. If not that’s okay, the knowledge Sensei passes along, it, ultimately FREE. Learn at your own pace in the comfort of your own home.
If you enjoy my FREE Kata Lab experience, please consider a small donation to help defray costs. Thank-you & remember to THINK – SWEAT – Experiment with your Kata.
This in-depth FREE Kata Lab course analyzes your Kata from the standpoint of “Time As A 4th Dimension Of Distance.” Using three analytical tools, Sensei John shows you how understand that as your physical speed diminishes with age, you can become quicker through a deep understanding of efficient use of time. All found within your Kata! Understand how time affects distance through the lens of Kata’s – interim movements; – sequence analysis, and; – rhythmic analysis.
Martial mythology contains tales of the “old masters” who seemingly without moving can defeat an aggressor. Now you can grasp how they simply understood the efficient use of time to offset the dilatory physical effects of age.
There’s nothing to loose and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. How? It’s FREE! Why? Sensei John is so certain you will not have analyzed your kata from the standpoint of time and the such an examination will be a catalyst for more Kata Lab experimentation, that after you finish the course you will want to make a small donation. If not that’s okay, the knowledge Sensei passes along, it, ultimately FREE. Learn at your own pace in the comfort of your own home.
Todays the day! My online school Kata-Rx For Wellness & Mindfulness is open for enrollment!
In it I offer a 3 course plan to learn my “1 Day / 1 Lifetime” Kata I created for non-martial artists to use to achieve physical and mental well-being. For those that prefer kata names in Japanese it is the “Ichi-nichi Issho” Kata. While this kata is designed specifically with the non-martial artist in mind, karate-ka can benefit too – it is a unique kata that is not available anywhere else. Not only did I create the kata with you in mind, no-one else is providing the insights I disclose in the 3 courses.
For a limited time the 1st course teaching the core physical movements & introductory states-of-mind is only $ 10. with a full refund in 30 days if not satisfied. Upon payment, you also can join a private FaceBook group for one-on-one interaction.
Please feel welcome to check it out and see the full curriculum – what a bargain for only $ 10 – that’s right 48 years of training resulting in a kata created just for you and you can start learning for less than the cost of a pizza.
The second course which will teach the full kata will be available in 2 weeks for a price of $ 55. (one time payment) or a 2 payment option of $ 30. each, also with a 30 day money back guarantee.
The third course teaching advanced topics will launch two weeks after the second course. This course will teach insights into kata that, I promise, no-one else is teaching these insights into kata for wellness and mindfulness. The price will be between $ 25 and $ 30 so that the entire 3 course kata program will be less than $ 100.
My Kata Lab posts, representing my almost five decades of experience, are shared here free. If you would like to donate to help defray costs, your generosity is appreciated. Thank-you & THINK-SWEAT-EXPERIMENT with kata.
$5.00
Ah, I’ve just returned from a long weekend in Provincetown, Cape Cod. This annual sojourn gives me the time to think. And what better topic to think about than – time. Not the scientific concept of time, but time as it relates to martial arts.
Time is an ignored element of the martial arts. It is almost never considered in kata bunkai (analysis). Whether they realize it or not, most martial artist think in terms of distance as three dimensional. Distance is only defined as a function of the three dimensions of length, width and height. In reality, there is a fourth dimension that mandates exploration – time. Please see the resources in Endnote # 1 for an introductory discussion of this topic.
Exploration of the time dimension is facilitated by expanding your kata bunkai (analysis) to include consideration of time. How does time affect kata and its application is a subject limited only by the imagination of the karate-ka (practitioner).
The following two videos provide two examples.
The first is from the Gekisai kata. In the video the kata sequence whereby an open middle block followed by a front snap kick is manipulated. You can see how time is manipulated to gain an advantage over your opponent. This is commonly referred to as “speed.”
In the second video you see a sequence whereby a reverse punch is followed by a front snap kick; a very common sequence in many kata. In so far as one’s leg is longer than one’s arm, there is a distance problem (see the video). This is overcome by manipulating the timing of the punch and kick as show. Again, while the dimensions of length, width and height traditionally determine range to the target, the fourth dimension of time must be accounted for.
Once you begin to analyze your kata and practice kata with an awareness of time, you may be confronted with kata sequences that are not so readily manipulated. This results in a necessary change to the sequence of the kata to overcome the limits of the time dimension. An example may be found in the Kanto Kata of the Goshin-Do Karate system. (See Endnote # 2 for a video of this unique kata) Kanto translates as “Fighting Spirit.” It was created by Hanshi Frank Van Lenten to illustrate the techniques and ideology of the Goshin-Do Karate style. Within Kanto Kata there are sequences which are difficult, if not impossible, to achieve maximum time efficiency. One such sequence is as follows.
Move # 1: Stepping forward on a forty-five degree angle, a middle block is performed.
Move # 2: The blocking hand then executes a jab to the opponent’s nose.
Move # 3: This is then followed by a reverse punch.
To achieve maximum time efficiency in any kata, a block and a counter should be executed simultaneously. (see Endnote # 3) So in the above sequence, if not for the jab, it would be simple to execute the middle block and reverse punch simultaneously. The jab causes a problem. It is impossible to block and jab with the same hand simultaneously. To be sure, you can perform these two movements as fast as possible, but never at the exact same time. Further, if you perform the middle block and link the jab and reverse punch to hit simultaneously, you have achieved time efficiency with the two counter attacks, but you still have not linked the block and counter as simultaneous. To overcome this problem, you must modify the sequence itself.
You step forward and perform the middle block and reverse punch simultaneously (moves # 1 and # 3), then,
You perform the jab (move # 2)
In modifying the sequence, you will now counter attack as quickly and as efficiently as possible. Thus achieved efficiency in the fourth dimension of time. This concept can readily be applied to your other kata. I’ll soon post an article extending the concept to Seisan Kata.
You should strive to include the fourth dimension of time into your kata bunkai (analysis). I not only do this when I have a partner available to apply my bunkai, I also do this when practicing alone. I perform my kata using the traditional sequences and then perform the kata using the time modified sequences as above. In this manner you are performing bunkai solo while simultaneously performing your kata (more on this at a later time).
If you subscribe to the training maxim that kata is one tool that will help you achieve maximum efficiency in a self defense situation, then you must include this type of practice into you regime.
Respectfully submitted,
Sensei John Szmitkowski
For information on my “no-risk”, kata seminars, please visit the seminar page using this convenient link https://senseijohn.me/seminar-kata/ My seminars are the ONLY seminars that allow you to pay at the conclusion, thus insuring your complete satisfaction! For a refreshing and innovative discourse on kata and bunkai, please feel free to visit Sensei John’s Kata Laboratory and “THINK * SWEAT * EXPERIMENT” using this convenient link: https://senseijohn.me/kata-lab/
1. Use this convenient link for a basic understanding as to how the three dimensions of distance – length, width and height apply to all karate technique and the necessity of understanding the fourth dimension of time – https://senseijohn.me/2015/11/23/underground-bunkai-sneak-peak/
2. Kanto Kata video
3. Those familiar with the five responses to attack will understand that transitioning from a block followed-up by a counter attack to a block and counter as one movement is a transition from the state of GO NO SEN (after, later-before): block & counter attack to a state of SEN NO TE (before-hand): block and counter attack are in one movement.
My Kata Lab posts, representing my almost five decades of experience, are shared here free. If you would like to donate to help defray costs, your generosity is appreciated. Thank-you & THINK-SWEAT-EXPERIMENT with kata.
$5.00
A dream is an answer to a question we have not yet learned to ask. Fox Mulder, The X-Files, (Paper Hearts episode, S4, E 10)
Background: Kata is always within you. In fact, you intentionally train to have kata within you. If a time comes when you are confronted by an attacker, kata rises to the surface and you can successfully defend yourself. The kata sequences that you instinctively use in your defense will vary based upon a great number of circumstances. Nonetheless, your training in kata will pay dividends in an actual street scenario. This kata lab explores that actuality. This Lab also functions as an introduction to the advanced concepts contained in Kata Lab # 4210: Kata Within You – Advanced. Experiment:
Do not pre-select a kata for this lab. Your kata should be as spontaneous as possible;
Do not “spontaneously” perform your “favorite” kata. To do so defeats the purpose of this Kata Lab.
As you go about your day be aware of the fact that your kata is brewing inside you, waiting to let itself out; At a random point in time (you may also use a timer as in previous kata labs), let the kata out;
Perform the kata as you require at that specific time. For example, in Kata Lab number 2230, you performed the kata in a “life and death” scenario. This time, perform the kata as your specific needs may require, examples include, performing the kata to rejuvenate yourself if you are tired, or performing the kata to “stretch your legs” and “get your blood flowing” if you’re lethargic;
The kata that bursts forth from within you should be as random as possible based upon your physical and psychological needs at the time.
Conclusion: This is a very basic kata lab to acquaint you with the idea that at all times, you are your kata and your kata is you. As you go about your day, kata simmers within you waiting to be called forth to help you through your day. This lab also provides a firm foundation for Kata Lab # 4210: Kata Within You – Advanced and for other more advanced labs that follow. This week’s featured video is
Bonus video from my new “Underground Bunkai” series:
Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque (“With the privilege and permission of the superiors”)
Sensei John Szmitkowski
For information on my “no-risk”, kata seminars, please visit the seminar page using this convenient link https://senseijohn.me/seminar-kata/
You’ve heard it in the dojo, you’ve read about it in books, magazines and blogs. It’s mentioned in videos on You-Tube. Heck, I even posted an article concerning the idea that “Practice makes perfect.” https://senseijohn.me/2010/07/19/practice-does-not-make-perfect/
Well, I say “Do NOT ‘perfect’ your kata!”
To ‘perfect’ means to, “make (something) completely free from faults or defects, or as close to such a condition as possible.” Kata is one “something” that it is utterly impossible to perfect. Consider the following.
First, let’s start with the kata itself. I submit it is impossible to perfect a kata. Initially, how is a perfect kata to be defined. Is it one that is technically correct, free from faults or defects? If so, then a perfect kata is one that is merely pretty and lacks any functional utility. It must be remembered that kata is a dance, the highest form of dance in my opinion, but a dance nonetheless. What differentiates kata from all other forms of dance is one crucial element. Kata has at its core a martial purpose. It is designed to facilitate self-defense (see endnote # 1) So, to consider a kata as perfect merely based upon technical correctness of the performance is incomplete. Surely, a performer that performs a perfect kata in the dojo or a tournament but cannot defend him or her self with the sequences and techniques from the kata is but a perfect dancer.
Second, kata exists merely as a concept. It is enlivened only through the actions of a performer. In so far as the performer is an imperfect being (as is all humans), the kata can never be perfected. As to this point, I am reminded of a saying from one of my instructors, “Kata is to be thought of as clay in a mold.” Even assuming, arguendo, that the mold (the kata) is itself perfect, the clay (the performer) contains individual imperfections. Through the performance of the kata, repeatedly subjecting the clay to the mold, one hopes to remove as many perfections as possible; however, given the nature of flux of the imperfections, this is impossible. (See Endnote # 2)
Third, as regular readers are aware, I steadfastly maintain that kata contains three individual aspects, a physical aspect, a spiritual aspect (the manner in which kata affects your state-of-mind, emotions and psyche) and an environmental aspect (the manner in which kata is affected by environment and vice-versa). When most teachers talk of “perfecting” your kata, they limit themselves to only the physical aspect of kata. By doing so, they avoid the most difficult aspect, the spiritual aspect. This aspect is difficult on several fronts. To start, I submit each kata contains within it a specific state-of-mind required for the performance. A full discussion of this point is beyond this article; however, you may gleam an idea of a specific kata’s proscribed statement of mind from the translation of its name. Examples include, the Kanto (Fighting Spirit) kata of Goshin-Do Karate, Taikiyoku (To build the body and the spirit) Geikisai (To Destroy) and Seienchin (Calm in the storm / storm in the calm). Thus this state of mind must be “perfected” within the kata – a monumental task at best. One’s mind, states thereof, including emotions and psyche can never be “perfected.”
In addition, even though a kata is relatively short in duration, it is exceeding difficult for the human mind to maintain itself in a “perfect” mental, emotional and psychological state for such a duration.
Fourth, looking at my environmental aspect of kata, two points must be borne in mind when considering the notion of “perfecting” your kata. It must be remembered that a kata was once a creation of its inventor. You can easily research the inventor’s physical characteristics at the time of creation. You may also discover insight into his general mental state (such as whether history tells us he was depressed, quick to anger, starving as in the case of a few post WWWII masters, or an alcoholic). You may not be aware of the impact of the creator’s environment on his kata creation. The kata would have been created taking such terrain into account. As such, the only way to “perfect” such kata is to perform it in its intended (read “perfect”) environment. Not sure? Take any of the various Kobudo oar kata as an immediate example. Most contain sequences involving using the oar to throw sand and /or soil into the eyes of the kata opponent. True, the kata can be performed in a dojo; however, such performance can not be “perfect” unless sand or soil is actually thrown and not merely simulated. Additionally, while you may “perfect” a kata within the sterile environment of a dojo, you may not be able to duplicate such perfection outside of the dojo, on uneven terrain, in clothes and shoes, with variations of temperature and climate.
So, if, as I say you should NOT “perfect your kata,” what then should you do. Let us turn to that great “master of Okinawa football” (hey, now-a-days, if it isn’t Okinawa, it’s not “authentic”), Coach Vince Lombardi of the Greenbay Packers (the team was originally from Okinawa and imported by US servicemen after WWII). 😇
Coach Lombardi once told his team,
We will relentlessly chase perfection knowing full well we will not achieve it, but we will relentlessly chase it and in the process, we shall find excellence.
Applying this to kata, I urge you to forget “Perfect your kata” and instead, “Excel at your kata.” To excel takes into account all the variables contained within my three aspects of kata. You can excel at kata regardless of your age, health and physical limitations. You can excel at kata even if you are not in an ideal mental or emotional state. In fact, I submit you should use kata to modify your dilatory emotional state https://senseijohn.me/2013/10/06/kata-lab-221-kata-as-an-emotional-modifier/ You can excel at kata in any physical environment, terrain or climate. By doing so, you will understand not only the martial aspects of kata and be able to defend yourself (with kata sequences) in the process, but also the “life-giving” aspects of kata. (See Endnote # 3)
So, stop accepting axiomatic advice and “Think * Sweat * Experiment for yourself. Don’t perfect your kata.” “Excel at your kata.”
This week’s featured Kata Laboratory video:
Bonus video: Here is a sneak peak at the newest video series “Underground Bunkai” which features my senior black belt, Sensei Jimmy DiMicelli, Go-Dan, Karate-Do NO Renshi.
Respectfully submitted, Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque (“With the privilege and permission of the superiors”)
Sensei John Szmitkowski
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For a refreshing and innovative discourse on kata and bunkai, please feel free to visit Sensei John’s Kata Laboratory and “THINK * SWEAT * EXPERIMENT” using this convenient link: https://senseijohn.me/kata-lab/
ENDNOTES:
1. Within the concept of self-defense, I include not only the obvious defense against an aggressor, but also physical health, and mental and emotional health.
2. This concept is the same as a chapter in my Kata Laboratory Book that addresses my concept that it is impossible to perform any kata exactly the same way twice. As of this writing, I have not released a free “teaser” of this chapter. This chapter discusses the multitude of variables and state of flux referred to in the article in great detail.
3. I draw a kata analogy to a concept from kendo (the art of the sword), “Satsujin no Ken (the sword that takes life) and Katsujin no Ken” (the sword that gives life”). I submit that the same applies to kata; Satsujin no Kata and Katsujin no Kata.
Sensei John is now on Facebook, under – FLY FISHING DOJO, you are invited to send a Facebook friend request.
You may wish to view my other blogs – my fishing blog which includes my fishing journals and the interrelationship between martial arts protocol & ideology to fishing http://flyfishingdojo.com
and the Goshin-Do Karate blog at http://defeliceryu.com
So, you just finished a kata seminar with the latest karate-do Master. Long in advance of the seminar, you pre-registered and paid your $ 100 plus dollar fee. The Master showed those select few of you his or her previously undisclosed, “hidden” application of kata sequences. According to the Master, “You now know the final bunkai for the kata.”
Well, not true on several fronts.
First and foremost, the word “bunkai” does not mean the physical application of kata sequences. It means analysis. Analysis is an on-going process;
Second, what was shown to you was an application of a kata sequence. You learned. You did not analyze anything yourself. You merely mimicked someone else’s application;
Third, what you learned is merely a physical application of kata sequences. You have not investigated my remaining two aspects of kata (and by extension, kata bunkai). Namely, the spiritual aspect (the manner in which the kata affects your state-of-mind, emotional state and psyche and vice-versa) and the environmental aspect (the manner in which your surroundings affect the kata and vice-versa).
The second point self-explanatory and the third is answered by my entire 200 plus page Kata Lab project. So, lets look at the first point. To aid my answer, I would like to once again “invite” the eminent physicist Dr. Richard Feynman into my Kata Lab. (See Endnote # 1).
Dr. Feynman once observed:
An experiment that confirms your theory does not prove that it is right, only that it is simply not proved wrong. It can never be proved right. Because in the future there could be a wider range of experiments that proves your theory wrong.* So, we are never sure we are right. We can only ever be sure we are not wrong.
* (reference was made to Newton’s law of planetary motion which was accepted correct until 100 years later when the planet Mercury’s motion proved it wrong).
So, for your seminar fee, what exactly did you get in terms of bunkai (analysis of kata)? You received something (see point two) that is not only inconclusive (see point three), but also, temporary, momentary and subject to change. Dr. Feynman would say you were shown an application that, for now, is “not wrong”.
How is this so?
The application you were shown is based upon the Master’s understanding of the kata sequences. This understanding factors in his or her physical limitations and abilities. Your use of the application is affected by your own physical capabilities and skills (which differ from those of the Master). Based upon your own individual characteristics the Master’s application may be utterly useless to you. Unless, of course, you, “Just keep practicing, one day you’ll get it right.” Even if you are able to perform the application, as your physical health changes your ability to perform that application will change. Thus what you learned as, ahem, “bunkai” needs to be revisited. If you do not revisit the application and make necessary adjustments, including finding an entirely new application, you will reach a point of stagnation. “I could perform this application in my younger days, or when my knees weren’t so bad.” Such statements are ridiculous.
Kata is not meant to be stagnant. It is meant to be fluid. It changes according to the performer. An analogy is the “Clay in the mold” interpretation of kata. Kata is the mold which will form you, the clay. As each lump of clay is different and will change over time, the mold (kata) will affect each lump differently. As to bunkai (analysis of kata), I submit that Dr, Feynman’s observation be modified as follows.
A bunkai (analysis) that confirms your understanding (of kata) does not prove that it is right, only that it is simply not proved wrong. It can never be proved right. Because in the future there could be a wider range of bunkai that proves your understanding incomplete. So, we are never sure that our bunkai is right. We can only ever be sure we are not wrong. (Sensei John Szmitkowski modifying Dr. Richard Feynman).
Thus, there are no absolutes in kata bunkai (analysis). Any analysis is merely temporary. It is subject to the changing dynamics and needs of the individual practitioner. Your changing health, age and capabilities all affect your analysis. Your non-physical characteristics may have a more profound impact on your kata analysis. Your mental state, emotions and psyche play a major role in how you analyze your kata. (See Endnote # 2) Further, there is a greatly overlooked and often entirely missed factor that contributes to your analysis. This factor is the manner in which the environment affects your kata. The impact of terrain, weather, temperature and other such environmental factors cannot be discounted.
My “visit” with Dr. Feynman now concluded, it is time once again for me to “Think * Sweat * Experiment” with my kata. Maybe one day I’ll get it “right.”
2. Kata can and should be used to modify emotions link https://senseijohn.me/2013/10/06/kata-lab-221-kata-as-an-emotional-modifier/
and video:
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“On the chessboard lies and hypocrisy do not survive long. The creative combination lays bare the presumption of lies; the merciless fact, culmination in checkmate, contradicts the hypocrites.” Chess Grand-master (GM) Emanuel Lasker
“With Kata bunkai lies and hypocrisy do not survive long. The creative combination lays bare the presumption of lies; the merciless fact, culmination in self-realization, contradicts the hypocrites.” Sensei John adapting GM Emanuel Lasker.
The 2015 Sinquefield Chess tournament recently ended. In a field of eight of the highest rated chess GM’s GM Levon Aronian emerged victorious.
The tournament was broadcast live on You-Tube. As I watched the matches, I thought about the similarities between chess analysis and kata analysis (called “bunkai”). Being familiar with his analogy between chess and scientific experimentation, I thought to “invite” the preeminent physicist, Dr. Richard Feynman, to my Kata Laboratory.
Here is the result of his “visit.”
Dr, Feynman’s analogy presupposes that you don’t know the rules of the game of chess but can observe it. Similarly, I presuppose that you may know the sequences of a kata, but not understand their purpose. Summarizing Dr. Feynman,
Observing a chess game, we may notice that there are two bishops that move on a diagonal, one is on the black squares and one is on the white squares and they d0 not change its color. This observation becomes a law or rule of the game. If the observer understands the law but wants a deeper understanding of it, then something unusual happens — the thing that doesn’t fit the rule is the most interesting.
Observing more, we may see that there could be three bishops or one of the two bishops could have changed colors so you could have two bishops on either the white or black squares. So, after this observation, we must ask, “How did this happen?” Based on the observations, we noticed that a pawn may have crossed the chessboard to the other side and thus became a new bishop. And so we have a new rule, that is a pawn is not sacrificed and crosses the chess board, it becomes a bishop and based on the colored square of the pawn, that bishop moves diagonally on squares of that color.
The same is true with kata and bunkai. When you first analyze a kata, your observations lead you to the most basic applications (Dr. Feynman’s“rules”). Those karate practitioners that dismiss kata will never get beyond this point. More often than not, their analysis results with a conclusion that, “Kata is useless in a “real” fight.” In the chess analogy, this would be akin to saying, “Pawns in chess are useless minor pieces.”
With time and deeper analysis, you see that those initial Kata “rules” (analysis) were basic and superficial. You begin to see a richer picture. Such deeper analysis is similar t the observation of a pawn being promoted to a bishop. Once kata bunkai (analysis) goes beyond the basic, the specter of ego and hubris may is appear. If your analysis is deeper and richer than that of a person of higher rank, including your Sensei, you may be met with systemic dogma. Chess provides a perfect example. “In our style of chess (karate), pawns are always meant to be sacrificed and therefore do not cross the board to become a new bishop.” Thus your (innovative) analysis of the game of chess (kata) is flawed in that it violates the dictates of the system as imposed upon its “leader.”
Continuing Dr. Feynman’s analogy one step further. A prolonged observation of the chess game would require a new rule to replace the old rule that a pawn can be promoted to a bishop. A promoted pawn can become a any new piece, be it a bishop, queen, knight, or rook, based upon the needs of the game. Thus, the pawn, which is the most basic piece, at all times hides an advanced piece within – as long as it is not sacrificed early in life and can be promoted on the last rank.
Again, this directly applies to kata analysis. New, richer deeper and dare I say even previously undiscovered applications may be found. In my personal practice, these applications extend beyond the mere physical applications. Through deep analysis, I have discovered spiritual applications of kata (how kata affects your state-of-mind, emotions and psyche) and environmental applications (how kata is influenced by and influences your external environment). More importantly, I have been able to formulate training exercises to assist others in discovering these hidden fields of application. This is the heart of my 40,000+ word “Kata Laboratory” project.
I have shared snippets of my Kata Laboratory with many comrades and masters within my karate-do sphere. The majority have commented in a positive manner. There are some; however, that due to their own lack of kata bunkai exploration, allow their ego and hubris to skew there comments. Their comments range from the “That is not part of kata” to the most disingenuous, “Of course.” Those you give the latter comment have then been known to go home to study the observation and conclusions (never having previously taken the time to do so) and teach it to their students as if its it their discovery. But, that is all part of the game of chess, I mean kata bunkai.
For those readers that would like a preview sampling of my 40,000+ word Kata Laboratory project, please visit the page tab above, or use this convenient link https://senseijohn.me/kata-lab/
Remember when it comes to kata bunkai it is always time to:
Please check back again as I apply more of Dr. Feynman’s observations to kata bunkai in Part Two of this submission.
Respectfully submitted,
Sensei John Szmitkowski
If you enjoy this post please help support this blog, visit my store and help support my experiments –
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With family health issues and my relocation to New Jersey from Arizona, I fell behind in creating videos. I have finally caught up with a backlog of videos; particularly videos in my Kata Laboratory category. To better serve you and enhance your understanding of some of my previously posted Kata Labs, I added a few videos.
But first, I think it is worth to again share with you my most profound kata experience among one of the herds of wild horses that call the Lower Salt River, Arizona home. Enjoy
These videos represent some of the last ones filmed in stunning Arizona scenery.
The idea for the Random Sanchin Kata Lab had recently occurred to me while watching a chess tournament online. You can read the background story in the article “Kata: My Curse?” using this convenient link: https://senseijohn.me/2014/09/22/kata-my-curse/
I’ll soon be on the road back to New Jersey and will have more articles and videos (always filmed outdoors, in Nature’s Dojo). Until then enjoy and thank-you for following my blog.
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Sensei John Szmitkowski
You may wish to view my other blogs –
my fishing blog which includes my fishing journals and the interrelationship between martial arts protocol & ideology to fishing http://flyfishingdojo.com
and the Goshin-Do Karate blog at http://defeliceryu.com
“What becomes authentic (traditional) when you live in Purgatory?” (Chef Roy Choi interviewed on Anthony Bourdain, Parts Unknown: Last Bites)
Background:
There are those that feel that Sanchin Kata is “too easy.” Personally, after forty-three years of Sanchin, I find this a ridiculous statement. But, let’s see. In lieu of presenting a new approach to bunkai (analysis), this Kata Lab will offer a challenge. Before giving up on Sanchin (or Kata in general) as “too easy”, try this Kata Lab. As my father would say, “I bet you a dollar to a donut” you can’t perform the lab correctly on your first attempt. If you cannot perform this Kata Lab on the first attempt, keep practicing Sanchin Kata (and your other kata) just a little bit longer; another decade or two should be adequate.
Experimental analysis (Recommended Reader Experimentation):
You have one “simple” task – perform your Sanchin Kata in reverse order (stepping backward, start with the last moves).
You can cheat if you need – perform the kata as you normally would to first refresh your recollection of the moves.
I bet you can’t do it correct the first time you try it.
To assist you, I have prepared a short video (filmed at the beautiful Lower Salt River, Arizona).
Once you achieve success, try performing Tensho Kata in reverse.
For Future Reference:
I have an advanced, master level, form of this Kata Lab.
As to this Kata Lab you should consider the following points and use them for future reference in the master level Kata Lab.
The movements of reverse Sanchin are calculated or intentional;
Even though the movements are performed in reverse order, the breathing pattern is exactly the same, to wit: a step & single move, a step and single move a step and a triple move, a step and a triple move, a step and a single move and a step and a single move;
Given the above, of the three battles of Sanchin (physical, spiritual and metaphysical battles), only the physical aspect of the kata is changed in reverse Sanchin. For those needed a refresher on my definition of the three battles of Sanchin, please see Endnote # 1.
Conclusion:
You get from Sanchin (and every other kata) exactly what you put into it. If you consciously (or unconsciously) put in boredom, stagnation and dullness, that is what you will receive in return. You set your kata boundaries and must live within them. If you are bored with Sanchin and other kata, blame yourself. Period.
If you look at your kata with a wide open imagination, innovation and a pure spirit, you will always find more and more below the surface. Remember, the mandate of my Kata Laboratory – Think * Sweat * Experiment!
Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque (“With the privilege and permission of the superiors”)
Sensei John Szmitkowski
If you enjoyed this post, help support my Kata Lab experiments,
Go – smell a pine tree; liberate your weary lungs from gasoline fumes. Go – find a rosebush and with unembarrassed lips give it a soft kiss. Whistle at a bird! Be the village idiot, Shamelessly human. (See Endnote # 1)
In my experience, most karate-ka practice kata exclusively within the Dojo. Their sole sojourn outside of the Dojo is the floor of a tournament venue. By remaining within these sterile, static environments, karate-ka deprive themselves of the most wonderful kata experience, to wit: kata in nature.
Practicing kata in nature opens the door to what I call the environmental aspect of kata bunkai (analysis). This aspect relates to understanding the connection of the kata, and the performer to the natural environment. Each (environment & performer) affects the other through the performance of kata. The environment affects the manner and feel of the performance. Conversely, the performer leaves his mark on the environment via the performance; “footprints in the sand”, if you will.
The purpose of the within Kata Lab is extremely simple – experience your kata outdoors. Experience, understand and absorb your kata outside of the sterile, static Dojo environment.
Kata Lab Experiment: (Recommended Reader Experimentation)
Select one kata that you will practice. I recommend a kata that you wholeheartedly enjoy performing;
Perform the kata wearing different clothes (unless you are outside at a nudist colony, PLEASE wear clothes). Ask yourself,
How does a jacket, hat or gloves affect kata?
Does wearing winter boots differ from summer sandals, if so, how?
Perform the kata in different environmental conditions. These conditions should take into account varying surface, atmospheric and other factors. Experience and understand how the various conditions affect your kata. For example, does your kata change when
performed in a park, on a grassy hillside?
performed when you are by yourself or around an audience (especially an audience of non-karate-ka!)
performed in a city parking lot with gravel, noise and observers watching you?
performed in the darkness of night versus the light of day?
Also consider how your performance affected the environment – did you leave footprints in the sand, bend a tree branch, have a crowd of onlookers applaud (or jeer) your performance, and the like;
As your awareness of the effects of the environment on kata increases, repeat the lab experiment with your other kata
Benefits of performing kata in nature:
initially, performing kata in nature prepares you to better defend yourself in the event of an attack;
allows you to begin to absorb the kata within yourself, wherever you may be (you are in the kata and the kata is in you!);
stirs the desire to perform your kata wherever and whenever you desire, regardless of whether you have privacy or not;
begins to foster an understanding of how you interact with your external environment;
leads to an understanding that you affect your environment and your environment affects you, each are intertwined and each leave a mark upon the other by way of the shared kata experience;
ultimately you are one intertwined with your surroundings.
Closing:
Practicing kata outdoors in nature initially serves a martial purpose – you may have to defend yourself outside the Dojo, in adverse conditions (ice, sand, hot, cold, windy conditions). Therefore, it is prudent to practice such defense in those conditions. Because of your experience, you begin to understand the impact of environmental conditions upon your kata. Eventually, you come to understand, via the kata, how you interact with your environment and it interacts with you – this is the environmental aspect of kata.
Consider this:
A lemon doesn’t consider
itself to be “bitter.”
A snail does not know
it is “slow.”
A skunk does not think
he makes such a “stink.”
An onion does not try
to make you cry.
Nature largely ignores
man, with just cause.
(See Endnote # 2)
Please remember, the mandate of the kata laboratory is
Sensei John Szmitkowski
Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque (With the privilege and permission of the superiors)
1. “Nature Lesson for Sheila“, from: Rhodes Dennis, Spiritus Pizza & Other Poems, (Video Links Media, Provincetown, MA 2000) p. 95.
2. “Hubris“, Id. P. 71.
Sensei John is now on Facebook, under – FLY FISHING DOJO, you are invited to send a Facebook friend request.
You may enjoy the Goshin-Do Karate-Do blog using the following link: WWW.DeFeliceRyu.Com
You may wish to view my blog dedicated to the interrelationship between martial arts protocol & ideology to fly-fishing and fishing in general by clicking WWW.FlyFishingDojo.Com
For those readers who have no experience with the spiritual bunkai (analysis) of kata, the following kata laboratory identifies a very simple means to practice kata so as to introduce you to the topic.
Please remember that spiritual bunkai of kata does not refer to religious, or supernatural states. Rather, spiritual bunkai refers to the method by which kata affects internal non-physical processes which include, but are not limited to emotions, states-of-mind (mushin, zanshin, nenjuushin and the like) and levels of awareness.
Exploring the spiritual bunkai of kata is markedly different from exploring the physical bunkai of kata. One area of divergence is that physical bunkai always requires a partner whereas spiritual bunkai need not require a partner, but always requires visualization.
Background:
One of the most basic means of stimulating our state-of-mind is to recollect past memories. We can readily recollect these memories while they remain fresh in our minds. As time progresses, or as we involuntarily “choose” to suppress them, such memories are not so easily recalled.
During my years as a trial attorney, I had many opportunities to confront uncooperative witnesses. At times, these witnesses could not recall past events. It was my obligation to refresh these witnesses recollections as to what they had experienced. Refreshing recollection could come in the form of sounds, smells and any other sensory-based stimulus. There is; however, one form of refreshing recollection that lay outside the legal boundaries of a trial, using kata to refresh recollection.
As an aficionado of kata, I developed a practical means of experiencing the spiritual nature of kata using kata to refresh your recollection of a past memory. Kata can, and often is, associated with:
people – (the person that taught you the kata, tested you, practiced with you or simply watched you perform a certain kata) (See Endnote # 2);
places – (any location within or external to the Dojo wherein you performed the kata, the more unique the location, the more vivid the memory)(See Endnote # 3);
things – (unique physical objects associated with a kata) (See Endnote # 4).
events – (tournaments, funeral ceremonies, memorials, rank tests wherein the kata was performed) (See Endnote # 5).
Memories Circa 1974: myself & others with Sensei Nick D’Antuono & my first trophies for kata (Gekisai) & kumite.
To this end, I submit the following Kata Laboratory.
Kata Laboratory (Recommended Reader Experimentation):
The following is my procedure to experiment with kata as a means of refreshing your recollection. It allows you to begin to experience kata not as a physical endeavor, but as a spiritual art.
1. Prior to kata practice, think about a person, place, thing or event associated with the kata. It helps immensely if the memory is directly linked to a specific kata. The above examples may help you choose such a memory.
2. Practice your kata concentrating on the past event you associate with the kata. Unconsciously perform the physical movements of the kata while being hyper-conscious of your mental recollection of the event associated with the kata. Your recollection should contain as much detail as possible;
3. Repeat as many times as you would like;
4. After concluding the kata session, remain in a state of zanshin (remaining mind); however, do not remain in a state of mind as to the kata, rather, remain in zanshin as to your refreshed recollection.
Closing:
Using kata as a means of refreshing your recollection of a past event is advantageous for many reasons including, but not limited to
Introduces bunkai (analysis) of the spiritual component of kata as defined above;
Stimulates an awareness of the internal cognitive aspect of kata (versus physical aspect);
Provides a foundation for incorporating more advanced spiritual bunkai (analysis) of kata.
Please remember, the mandate of the kata laboratory is
Cum superiorum privilegio veniaque (With the privilege and permission of the superiors)
Sensei John Szmitkowski
Please help support Sensei’s Kata Lab experiments –
1. Nietzsche, Frederich, Beyond Good And Evil, Maxims and Interludes, Maxim number 68.
2. Video of my Sanchin Hatsu Bon in Memory of Shihan Wayne Norlander
3. Video of my Nami-Kiribi (Cutting-Wave) Kata performed on vacation in Cape Cod, MA
4. Video of Seienchin performed in an evening lightening & thunderstorm
5. Video of Sanchin (shobu Version) during an “event” with vultures
Sensei John is now on Facebook, under – FLY FISHING DOJO, you are invited to send a Facebook friend request.
You may enjoy the Goshin-Do Karate-Do blog using the following link: WWW.DeFeliceRyu.Com
You may wish to view my blog dedicated to the interrelationship between martial arts protocol & ideology to fly-fishing and fishing in general by clicking WWW.FlyFishingDojo.Com
Kata To Modify Emotions – Filmed in the scenic Superstition Mountains, Arizona, his video uses Gekisai Kata to demonstrate how kata affects your emotional state: https://senseijohn.me/2013/10/06/kata-lab-221-kata-as-an-emotional-modifier/
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