The Kata of Kodokan Judo
      
Kata is a method of studying the waza of Kodokan Judo via
prearranged forms. The founder of Kodokan Judo, Dr Jigoro Kano and other
high-ranking judoka of past and present generations have developed the Kodokan
Judo kata as a result of long and detailed research and practice.
The study of any Kodokan Judo kata is a challenging activity and
a high degree of proficiency cannot be achieved in a day, a week, a month or a
year. Achieving true mastery will require many hours of patient and diligent
practice under the guidance of an experienced and knowledgeable sensei.
The following elements are essential for the correct execution
of Kata.
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Understanding of the basics
of the kata being demonstrated |
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Composure - proper mental
concentration, decorum, and character |
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Correct etiquette |
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Correct breathing |
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Correct posture |
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Movement and transition
between techniques |
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Power and Strength |
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Tempo |
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Balance and body control |
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Focus of technique |
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Fluid body movement and
gracefulness |
In particular, all kata must been seen to flow. Any kata
performance will break down if there is any hesitation during application.
Furthermore it is always necessary to keep in mind the fundamental principles
being demonstrated and the reason for the application of any particular
technique.
The main Kodokan kata are as follows: Nage-no Kata, Katame-no
Kata, Kimeno Kata (also known as the Shinken-Shobu-No-Kata), Kodokan Goshin
Jutsu, Ju-no Kata, Itsutsu-no Kata and Koshiki-noKata.
Information for the kata pages on
this site were taken from an article by:
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