Worthing Karate Club Traditional Shotokan Karate

As with anything in life, we cannot perform advanced tasks without first having learned the basics. The same is true in karate. The training of basics is essential for the development of efficient and powerful karate technique. Emphasis is placed on correct use of the whole body in the areas of posture, range and balance of movement and so forth.

Correct form and posture are crucial in karate, all parts of the body must harmonize to provide the stability required to sustain the shock of delivering a kick or punch with full speed and force. Shotokan basics, training consists of working on stances, simple punching, blocking, moving, and kicking, as well as combinations of techniques practiced moving up and down the dojo. These basics are often performed and perfected through repetition until the actions become second nature.

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Kumite is the application of the basic techniques practiced when doing kihon and kata, for this you train with one or more partners. This part of the training is carefully controlled and developed in stages as you progress in karate.

Initially kumite attacks are pre-determined, where the opponent knows the attack beforehand. This tests the proper application of the basic techniques, while maintaining the correct attitude, distance and timing. is also extremely important to attack with perfect distance, you should be able to lightly touch the intended target area. The attack should have the ability to penetrate into the target but to be pulled short of full contact. Eventually attacks and blocks will be freely delivered without warning.

At all times attack and defend with the attitude as if it were a real encounter. Participants must always be aware of each other and of themselves, both the attacker and defender must remain in a state of readiness at all times. Total concentration is required for the entire exercise.

Karate techniques were practiced in the Ryukyu islands in secrecy, few records were kept and techniques were passed on directly from master to student. Karate kata are a predetermined series of blocking , attacking and evading techniques against one or more attackers who may be either armed or unarmed.

There are 26 Shotokan kata which can be broadly categorised into two groups: those which suit the lighter more mobile structure(Shorin-ryu) and those that suit the larger, stronger body structure(Shorei-ryu). Both groups are practiced regardless of body type.

Kata should be practiced while imagining being surrounded by opponents who are determined to inflict serious harm to you. You should be able to defend and attack in all directions while having an alert, concentrated awareness. No techniques should be pulled short, but correct form should be maintained throughout.

Kata practice is an excellent physical exercise which develops suppleness, flexibility, stamina and improved muscle tone. Kata is also practiced with a partner (Bunkai)- the application of the kata techniques.