Karate vs Kata, is there a difference?

[disarm]

Hi,

Can anyone please explain to me the difference (if any) between Karate and Kata?

I ask because I've been looking at books on Shotokan Karate, found this one

http://www.mawarehouse.com/096690480X/25_Shoto_Kan_Kata.html

which looks alright and might help me as a mere beginner. But is this the same thing?

Probably sounds dumb I know!

Thanks

[orion82698]

Karate "Empty hand" is a MA

Kata "Form" is exactly that. A form of movements simulating a fight (steps, strikes and various blocking movements. Kata is not a style.

If you're looking for a style of Karate, check out this link.

http://tkdtutor.com/ Look under Karate Styles.

[JusticeZero]

Karate is a fighting art as a whole. Kata is a form, a type of exercize containing a number of techniques of the art connected in a specific way.

[Goju_boi]

katas are a part of all karate styles.That's probably why you saw the two together so much.

[disarm]

Thanks All.

[Goju_boi]

no problem

[IronWarrior]

Kata could be considered the 'essence' of Karate, without kata there would'nt be Karate, thats why all styles of karate have them and the masters developed them, its the characteristics of each style, example 'Shotokan' low stances, very direct, Wado Ryu, Higher stances, tai sabaki 'body shifting' indirect.. its all in the Katas.

[Goju_boi]

"its all in the Katas."

good quote