Forms/Kata/Poomse/Sets...How much is too much?

[Stold]

Now, I know half of the forum population is going to scream "YOU CANNOT BECOME A GOOD FIGHTER JUST BY DOING KATAS!"

 

But then the other half will say "KATAS PERFECT TECHNIQUES AND ARE A CONSTANT NECESSITY!"

 

Well, now I am curious. How much is too much. If a dojo devotes 4 out of 5 classes a week to Kata practice, are you really learning out to fight and defend yourself?

[SBN Doug]

In my opinion, 4 out of 5 would be too much. 2 half classes a week is enough for the number of forms we learn.

[KickChick]

I believe it depends on the amount of forms that you required to perform.

 

As a 2nd deg. bb I am up to 14 forms. (5 of which are bb forms only)

 

Usually in my classes (bb class -advanced) we concentrate on just our forms)

 

When we get together twice a month with regular adult class (all belts) we will go over all forms.

 

It is basically the responsibility of the student to practice their kata/forms outside of class if they feel they aren't spending enough class time on them.

 

I suppose you can spend too much time on kata/forms in class also!

[niel0092]

I dont know. I usually use forms as a warm up before class on my own and then we spend a part of the end of class to do forms too. There is not really a "forms" class per say as there are sparring classes (2 X's a week). I think more than 2 classes a week devoted entirely to forms wold be too much.

[kchenault]

I agree with what has been said before. Frequency should match what is required by the "system" for advancement. But whole classes devoted to forms? Sakes alive!

[BKJ1216]

I got a question worthy of an answer. What's the difference between kata and.... everything else?

[kchenault]

Kata or forms are sets of movements that are pre-determined to practice techniques in simulated battle situations. Antiquated? Maybe. Good way to practice form and technique. Definately. You will get the whole gamut of answers on this Forum site.

[crash]

BKJ1216, kata/forms are a predetermined sequence of moves, (ex. bow, ready pos. look/ turn left, high block, middle punch, slide up, jab, front kick, look over shoulder, turn right, etc...) they're for practicing moves that you have learned in a combined way and for understanding how techniques fit together. that is the diff. from practicing say, front kicks only with kicking shields.

[kchenault]

Well put crash. Better than mine.

[Kyle-san]

Personally, I wouldn't mind a class that spent most of it's time on kata. Yes, I like learning new techniques and do enjoy sparring (either stand-up or grappling) but through all my training I just loved to do kata. I really don't care if they'll make me a good fighter or not, I enjoy them for what they are and the fact that I get very relaxed while running through them.