Wednesday 4 February 2015

How to Understand Basic Karate- The Art of Karate

The concepts of basic karate explained. This should work with almost any style of karate, because the basic principles are essentially the same.
1) There are many styles of Karate; e.g. traditional and modern (Sport Karate), but many of the basic techniques are the same.
2) Training in Karate generally involves four aspects:
  • Kihon (Basic techniques)
  • Kata (Form or pattern)
  • Bunkai (Study of techniques encoded in kata or "kata application")
  • Kumite (Sparring or paired form).
3) In kihon, you learn the Karate way of punching, blocking, kicking and movement. Often you will do drills for your Sensei that may be dull and boring, however you should always try your absolute hardest, sound motivated, get low, and snap out your blocks, punches, and kicks.
4) In kata, you learn to combine the basic techniques in a flowing movement.Each kata is built around a specific fighting strategy for you to understand. Always remember to look where you’re going, and remember what you learned in kihon.
5) In bunkai, you analyze every movement in a given kata and develop possible applications in real combat situations. Bunkai is a transition step to kumite.
6) In kumite, you learn to apply kihon and bunkai in a controlled environment.Kumite is one step towards real combat, in that two practitioners will attempt to perform moves on each other, whether in turns, or in Du Kumite which is another step towards free fighting. Remember to be relaxed, and don’t pay any attention to the size of the person. Pretend you are playing a video game, and don’t be afraid of getting hit. That will happen often.
7) Basic Punches: Karate punches use straight punch technique with a twist of the wrist near the point of impact. Always hit with your first two knuckles, and make sure that your elbow is not locked, because you will overextend it and get hurt. Pull the fist that isn’t punching back to your waist as you punch. This is called ‘Hikite’ and if timed correctly, will help your punch be stronger and sharper.

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