Ten chief purposes of kata
1.to afford a basic training method for judo
2.to develop representative basic judo techniques
3.to ensure harmonious technical development and a wide range of judo techniques
4.to ensure a harmoniously developed body
5.to improve mental control
6.to display the mechanics and spirit of judo by exhibition
7.to promote the development of the judo spirit
8.to ensure the development of self-defense principles and values
9.to provide a suitable kind of judo practice for all
10.to ensure the preservation of the traditional symbolic values of judo
Purpose 1.kata was primarily intended by kano to serve as the basic training
Method for judo as a whole. In the truest sense, kata is considered the core training method
Of judo.this is not to say that kata is the central judo training method in terms of time allotted to study
And practice. But since, through is essential nature, kata alone can best satisfy the requirements
Of a core study as defined by the criteria of physical education, kata study and practice must take its rightful
Place. We need only turn to the exact words of kano to substantiate this:
Following the principle of physical education we will observe the rule that a moderate exercise should come
Before a strenuous exercise, as well as a symmetrical exercise before an irregular exercise
Of the three major basic training methods of judo (kata, randori ,and shiai ),only kata can meet the requirements of moderation and symmetry. In modern training methodology, kata can include the normal uchikomi method. Chapter 10 elaborates on this idea.
Purpose 2.it axiomatic that to be effective with any given skill, one must understand
The nature and function of the component parts of its mechanics. Thus,the judoist cannot be completely effective in judo unless he understands all of its aspects. Kata is full of representative basic judo techniques which, when practiced and understood, form the basis for all other judo skills; kata anticipates solutions to most situations that can arise,by application of judo techniques. Through proper use of kata these representative basic