Bushido Kai Forms Training
with World Champion,
Johnnie Murphy
Five Basic Principles of Forms
- 1. A proper start to any kata is important. Remember karate is patterned after ancient Japanese military tradition. There are a few important points to starting your kata.
- » Always stand erect and move with efficiency as you enter the ring.
- » Speak loudly and clearly to the judges.
- » Never turn your back to the judges.
- » Always bow to the judges.
- 2. It is important to follow basic procedure and techniques when transitioning from stance to stance.
- » Always user defensive and offensive hip rotation during the practice of kata.
- » Lower your stances when possible.
- » Always use 90 and 45 degree perfect direction for movement.
- 3. All hand techniques must follow proper position and show power.
- » Center punches go to the solar plex.
- » High punches go to the head area.
- » Low punches go to the groin area.
- » Fully extend punches and hold them for a split second during stop points and kiai points.
- 4. Kicks need to contain proper dynamics.
- » Chamber all kicks for clean looking leg motion.
- » Pull the knees as high as you can so your kicks will get more height and look better.
- » Hold kicks for a split second to accent their extension and show balance and control.
- 5. Body movement needs good symmetry.
- » Keep your knees bent.
- » Keep your back straight.
- » Don't bob your head up and down during your kata.
- » Try to end where you started.
- » Come to a complete stop during stop points in your techniques.