Iain Abernethy on The Four Stages of Kata

www.iainaberne...
In this video I quickly discuss the 4 Stages of Kata. These stages are:
1 - Learning, training and refining the solo form.
2 - Training the bunkai (applications).
3 - Exploring the principles demonstrated by the bunkai so we can adapt and vary (i.e. internalise sound combative habits).
4 - Gain live experience of freely employing the methods and principles of kata.
It is when all four stages are correctly practised and integrated that the purpose and value of kata can become fully realised.
To fully understand this model, you need to experience the process first-hand. I nevertheless hope this brief overview is of value.
All the best,
Iain

[@woodsyshroomer]

Everyone has their own thought process i guess, but i'm amazed there are any thumbs down, Iain makes a lot of sense, even if you don't agree exactly with every point. How can asking students to think, ever be a bad thing?

[@AndoMierzwa]

Great video, sir! Should be required viewing for all karateka!

[@rachadselkridge764]

I am grateful to have found your channel. This is exactly what I needed to take my training to the next level. Regards from Trinidad and Tobago.

[@amcconnell6730]

I love the idea that, when you look to the side, or move to the side - it is telling you that it is the enemy who is looking to the side... because you always (if you can) face your enemy, that's a given.

[@danilodibujo]

I absolutelly agree with your point of view of Karate, and I enjoy and learn very much with your videos. I´m very curious to see that "kata sparring" you talk about. Could you upload some "kata kumite" examples? Regards from Argentina.

[@teddypantelas]

You took the words out of my mouth. I’ve always thought that a martial artist should be able to fight out of a Kata and it look like the that Kata. Fighting using Chinto, Naihanchi, Seiuchin, Sunsu and it be obvious. Is it necessary in true self defense? Obviously not. As a martial artist we know that each Kata is like its own system so we should be able to fight out a certain Kata and it look like Wansu. These kumite drills is a gateway into achieving just that, which will only make one KNOW the Kata by using it. A win win situation of growing and knowing the deeper meaning of what we’re doing on this never ending journey we are on. Thank you Ian Abernathy for all you share so generously and keeping the true spirit of martial arts alive.

[@jamesnewman6032]

Boom! My mind has just exploded with this awesome information. I'll never look at katas the same now. This really peels back several new layers in how to approach kata.

[@jamesnewman6032]

To steal a quote from your recent video "I've had an epiphany" about kata. 😎🥋

[@JamesMMcCann]

Love this guy. So insightful, thank you Iain.

[@TieXiongJi]

Wise words, brother. I came to this conclusion as well. My coaches hinted at this sentiment, but never laid it out like this. Thank you.

[@Ronin-101]

Only 17k subs. People dont realize the standard of the content shared here.

[@NorthernGoju]

exceptional and insightful using common sense. we make training harder than it has to be at times when simple is staring us in the face screaming Hello right here guy.. keep going and God bless. Peace and Prosperity sir.

[@newheightsmartialarts2857]

More martial artist should watch this. Too many modern fighters turn their nose up to kata because they dont understand it. This is a great video.

[@freddyfmunoz1908]

Very true trying to get my instructor to expand on 3 & 4. Thank you

[@lionelfroidure]

Great point of vue. Thanks for sharing and hope lot of karateka will watch it.

[@ruiseartalcorn]

Excellent advice!

[@Spirittkdaus]

Love this breakdown on Kata and developing the understanding of how to read and reap the benefits from it. I’m sure this has been asked 1000 times, so please excuse me for asking what do you look for in defining the underline principles of a kata?

[@practicalkatabunkai]

There are innumerable combative principles in kata, with the aim of the “kata process” being to internalise them so they are instinctive and habitual. We don’t fight with kata, bunkai or drills. What we do fight with are the habits the kata, bunkai and drills have given us. So, it’s it broadest the underlying principles of the kata are the things that make combative actions work. This will include thing like: Continual advantage; Taking the path of least resistance; Effectively opening up targets; Getting bodyweight into techniques; Tactical positioning; Utilising predictable response (pain withdrawal reflex); Effective breaking balance (taking the enemy’s centre of gravity outside the base); Effective use of leverage; and on and on. The kata give us examples of concept. It’s not the example that matters, but the concept. The kata process makes those concepts innate and habitual so we can adept to circumstance. This article builds on this some more: iainabernethy.co.uk/article/understanding-kata-textbooks-and-tactics I hope that helps./ All the best, Iain

[@janneheinonen621]

Once again, great stuff. Thank you.

[@shrijitpaul2604]

Please make a practical application of Sansai

[@NaihanchinKempo]

Love the joy in your face :)

[@followingfist6]

VERRRY GOOD..explanation!

[@MarioUcomics]

Hi there I do Kyokushin karate and notice Mas Oyama has made some changed to the Shotokan and Goju Ryu Katas such as adding jumps in Pinan San and Go or changing Shoto strikes form being straight like in Shotokan to being an over the head chop. Should I ignore these changes and look at the original katas to see what what the practical bunkai originally intended or it shouldn't be that much of a problem then trying to understand the principle behind the kata

[@KenpoKid77]

Having looked at Mr. Abernethey's DVD's and vids, he looks at both the original and the modern...much like the old Okinawan saying, "Study the old to understand the new." In all his DVD's, he addreses the different variations of kata like Bassai, Kusanku/Kanku, Pinan/Heian, etc. He'll cover the application based on the kata he practices (which are based in the Wado Ryu system) and also address Shotokan equivalents. I apply the same approach for my branch karate (Nippon Kenpo), and I'm sure the could be done for Kyokushin.

[@jhonsonthedongarzon872]

great video

[@bobharris7458]

You've made several references to masters and their sayings. Would you list the various books where you learned this information so I may read them?

[@practicalkatabunkai]

This old podcast of mine contains some of my favourite quote and explains where they can be found. I hope it helps: www.iainabernethy.co.uk/content/masters-speak-podcast

[@nicoladalsecco8806]

GREAT

[@Darragh62]

Nice one