I am a third dan studying with Master Johnson's Karate in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. I couldn't agree more with the comments about kata / hyung / forms / patterns. For me the triangle of kata, kion and kumite has bunkai at its centre. I believe that combat interpretation of the forms is the key to effective martial arts. In particular, I've had a lot of fun with locks and grappling interpretations of kata - highly recommended! The other less obvious aspect of kata is expression. I like to think that the "art" portion of a Martial Art has as much emphasis as the "martial" portion. I tried hard to think of what art is (!!!), and I came to the conclusion that it is self-expression in a creative way. I don't see how you could have more fun: combat training and self-expression all in one! Happy Training! Nick.
