By Lawrence A. Kane, Kris Wilder
Autographed by authors
The Principles for Understanding Kata were Largely Unknown – Until Now
The ancient masters developed kata, or “formal exercises,” as fault-tolerant methods to preserve their unique, combat-proven fighting systems. Unfortunately, they deployed a two-track system of instruction where an ‘outer circle’ of students unknowingly received modified forms with critical details or important principles omitted. Only the select ‘inner circle’ that had gained a master’s trust and respect would be taught okuden waza, the powerful hidden applications of kata.
The theory of deciphering kata applications (kaisai no genri) was once a great mystery revealed only to trusted disciples of the ancient masters in order to protect the secrets of their systems. Even today, while the basic movements of kata are widely known, advanced practical applications and sophisticated techniques frequently remain hidden from the casual observer. The principles and rules for understanding kata are largely unknown.
This groundbreaking book unveils these methods, not only teaching you how to analyze your kata to understand what it is trying to tell you, but also helping you to utilize your fighting techniques more effectively—both in self-defense and in tournament applications.
Ø 15 general principles to identify effective techniques
Ø 12 discrete rules for deciphering martial applications
Ø Comprehensive insights into kata history, strategy and tactics
Ø Vital physiological considerations
Ø Well organized materials for easy reference and comprehensive understanding
Lawrence Kane began practicing martial arts at age 6, studying everything from traditional Asian martial arts (e.g., karate, judo, arnis) to medieval European combat, modern close-quarter weapons, and rifle marksmanship. For the last 21 years he has worked as a security supervisor at a Pac-10 football stadium where he has witnessed, interceded in, and stopped or prevented hundreds of fights, experiencing all manner of aggressive behaviors as well as the escalation process that invariably precedes them.
Kris Wilder began practicing martial arts at age 15, earning black belt rankings in Goju Ryu karate (4th dan), tae kwon do (2nd dan), and judo (1st dan). He has received training in Okinawa, Japan as well as in the USA from gifted martial artists who take their lineage directly from the founders of their systems. Kris owns the West Seattle Karate Academy (www.westseattlekarate.com).
Chapter 1 Background Fundamentals
What is a Kata?
Chinese Kung Fu
Okinawan Martial Arts
Kanryo Higashionna (Naha Te)
Chojun Miyagi (Goju Ryu)
Origin of Kata in the West
Kata as a Textbook
Types of Applications
Types of “Fighting”
Why Applications are Not Readily Discernable in Kata
More Than One Proper Application Exists
Hidden Applications between Kata Movements
Summary
Chapter 2 – Strategy and Tactics
Effective Applications Must Be Grounded in a System’s Strategy
Strategy vs. Tactics
Do Not Confuse the Quality of the Strategy with the Skill of the Fighter
Once You Have a Strategy, Use It
The Decision Stick
Strategy of Goju Ryu
Principles of Enforcement
Tactics of Goju Ryu
Forms of Compliance
Summary
Chapter 3 – Principles
1) There is More Than One Proper Interpretation of Any Movement
2) Every Technique Should Be Able to End the Fight Immediately
3) Strike to Disrupt; Disrupt to Strike
4) Nerve Strikes are “Extra Credit”
5) Work with the Adrenaline Rush, Not Against It
6) Full Speed and Power
7) It Must Work on an “Unwilling” Partner
8) Strive to Understand Why It Works
9) Deception Is Not Real
10) If You Are Not There, You Cannot Get Hit
11) Cross the T to Escape
12) Stances Aren’t Just for Kata
13) Don’t Forget to Breathe
14) Use Both Hands
15) A Lock or Hold is Not a Primary Fighting Technique
Summary
Chapter 4 – Rules
1) Do Not Be Deceived by the Enbusen Rule
2) Advancing Techniques Imply Attack, While Retreating Techniques Imply Defense
3) There is Only One Enemy at a Time
4) Every Movement in Every Kata Has Martial Significance
5) A Hand Returning to Chamber Usually Has Something in It
6) Utilize the Shortest Distance to Your Opponent
7) Control an Opponent’s Head and You Control the Opponent
8) There is No Block
9) Kata Demonstrate the Proper Angles
10) Touching Your Own Body in Kata Indicates Touching Your Opponent
11) Contour the Body—Strike Hard to Soft and Soft to Hard
12) There is No Pause
Summary
Chapter 5 – Physics, Physiology, and Other Considerations
Characteristics of Violence
Physiological Threat Response
Brain Activity in Combat
Non-diagnostic Response
Levels of Response
Catching Bullets
Stealing Time
Speed Kills!
Vital Points (Kyushu)
Summary
Chapter 6 – Process
Bringing It All Together
Dojo Practice
Cooperative Performance
Formula
Summary
Chapter 7 – Kata Examples
Saifa
Seiyunchin
Seisan
Saipai
Shisochin
Kururunfa
Sanseiru
Suparinpei
Gekisai (Dai Ni)
Summary
Conclusion
What top martial arts instructors are saying about The Way of Kata:
“This book is an absolute must for any serious practitioner of traditional karate, tae kwon do, or kung-fu.”– Philip Starr, Inside Kung Fu Hall of Fame Member; Founder of Yiliquan
“For years, karateka have needed a manual to bridge the gap between their training and real violence. This book is a pioneering step in fulfilling that need.”– Sgt. Rory Miller, tactical team leader; close quarters combat instructor
“This superb book is essential reading for all those who wish to understand the highly effective techniques, concepts and strategies that the kata were created to record!”– Iain Abernethy, 5th dan, British Combat Association, Combat Hall of Fame Member
“This comprehensive book bridges the gap between form and application in a realistic, easy-to-read and easy-to-apply manner.”– Loren Christensen, 7th degree black belt; author
“Demonstrates the practical uses of kata, relates the traditional and modern aspects of fighting, and brings meaningful information to today's martial artists.” – Martina Sprague, martial arts instructor; author
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