Tips for Kata

Performing kata can be a nerve-racking experience. However, if you can maintain your composure and work your way through the kata carefully end to end you will find it a very rewarding activity.

There are some key things to consider when doing your kata. Judges do not necessarily know the kata you are performing so the way it is judged is not on the kata movements specifically but on your execution of the kata.

Key aspects such as Eye and Head movement, Crisp strikes, and blocks with balanced movement are being looked for.

Key factors:

1. Conformance (to kata) Using the actual movements as performed in the kata.
2. Technical overall performance
3. Stances & Techniques
4. Transitional movements
5. Timing/Synchronisation
6. Correct breathing
7. Focus (kime)
8. Technical difficulty

Athletic performance:

1. Strength & Speed
2. Balance
3. Rhythm
4. Athletic performance
5. Speed & Timing
6. Kata is not a dance or theatrical performance. It must demonstrate strength, power, and speed — as well as grace, rhythm, and balance.

If you make a mistake do not freak out. Just keep going as though you did not make a mistake. Display confidence in your execution.

Take your time, do not rush. Keep your head up and track your strikes and blocks clearly with your eyes and head. Breath throughout the kata exhaling on strikes and blocks.

The best tip for performing your kata is “PRACTICE”. Ensure you have practiced your kata again and again so the movements are second nature and you do not have to think about them too much. A great way to practice is to video yourself doing your kata and then review using an eye with the above items in mind See what you need to change and then repeat the process.

Kata is a rewarding and excellent teaching activity. Focus on the movements and techniques involved and break apart what you have, looking at possible applications.