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We have had some very spirited debates, predominantly with MMA exponents, about the merit o training kata. Most people equate 'kata' with what you see in competition. That is just the tip of the iceberg.
:asian:
Tip of the iceberg is a good way to describe it. A kata can be trained superficially for the purposes of a demonstration or competition. That isn't meant to be derogatory, rather the competitor doesn't need the depth of a kata. He/she needs the movements. They need speed, power, aesthetics and if we're honest...flash. It is like a martial arts dance routine. That unfortunately is what many see and then assume is the actual bulk of kata training. It isn't. It can be a dance or it can be an onion where the layers go very deep and provide a veritable encyclopedia of material to train with. Where function trumps form.