Once the fundamentals have been learned, then it s time to begin programming. Techniques are put together in logical sequences that require the student to learn body mechanics, rhythm, timing, and responses to a variety of attacks. It is not enough that a student mechanically go through the motions. Instead kata should be performed with the rhythm and intensity as if in a real situation. Over the past several years, research has proven what the ancient masters have known all along.
Visualization is used widely in all aspects of sport today.
The competitor concentrates and visualizes themselves performing their sport and being victorious. Practice of kata with the combined visualization doesn t happen overnight and may require the repetition of the kata literally thousands of times. This is where Ippon, Sambon and Juji Kumite come into play. The student learns to practice their responses are in a safe and controlled environment where an improper response would result in no more than a few bruises. Needless to say, a few bruises in the dojo are preferable to loss of life on the street.