Kata - is a Japanese word that describes detailed choreographed patterns or movements often practised in solo.
Up until the 1930’s, Karate katas were the only way karate was taught. Kata was one person’s way of memorizing
certain fighting sequences without the use of a partner, and to remember techniques that had a high rate of
success when used in combat. Putting these movements into an organized drill that could be practiced regularly
meant that they could not only be remembered more easily, but could also be taught to others.
In Goju-ryu katas, all the elements of correct karate practice and secrets are stored within each and
every Kata. These predetermined patterns represent a battle with multiple imaginary opponents approaching
from different directions. The kata’s utilize attacking and defensive techniques to a certain speed and
timing whilst maintaining the correct breathing and heart rate. Goju-Ryu kata’s can be traced back to
China and Okinawa in the 1600’s.
The Go “Hard” and ju “soft” aspects of Goju-ryu as well as proper breathing is particularly taught
through these predetermined forms we call kata’s. With proper breathing and knowing when to be hard
and when to be soft enables a Goju-ryu student to conserve strength and rejuvenate at will.
The practice of kata teaches our students to link the mind and body. This form of meditation developes
a student intellectually and spiritually. The physical benefits of kata include improved coordination,
balance, speed, focus, muscular control and strength.
The most dedicated and highly trained practitioners develop what is called mushin no shin, a Zen
expression meaning “mind of no mind”. (i.e. a mind not fixed or occupied by thought or emotion and
thus open to everything). Mushin no shin is achieved when a person feels no anger, fear or ego during
combat. There is an absence of discursive thought and judgment, so the person is totally free to act
and react towards an opponent without hesitation. At this point, a person relies not on what they think
should be the next move, but what is felt intuitively.