Kata

Bibliography:
DeMente, Boye Lafayette. "Kata: The Key to Understanding & Dealing with the Japanese." Tuttle. Vermont. 2003.

Review: Anyone who has read even a small part of my postings knows that I am a believer in the kata of martial arts. I have a plethora of books on the subject and have practiced, worked out and found many values and possibilities for the practice of kata. Never until this book did I imagine how pervasive kata really is far and beyond the martial arts systems of both Japan and Okinawa.

The title may mislead many into thinking it is a book that is meant for visitor's to the island of Japan. They would be part right, part wrong, and miss a great inspiring culturally informative book that will open the eyes to "kata" not only in martial systems but a far greater all-encompassing way.

Mike Clarke Sensei, as others have stated, kata is not a part of the martial arts. The martial arts are a part of kata. Read this book to find out. Note also that they give martial arts its due in the subheading of chapter 3, titled, "The Role of Martial Arts."

The Judo practitioners who read this will be pleasantly pleased to see how Jigoro Kano Sensei is given due credit for his contributions. In the true nature of Japan's "Shikata or kata-izing" Kano Sensei incorported Japan's Kata traditions to achieve greatness in the form of Judo.

Personally I am very pleased he did so for his influences also inspired the Okinawan masters of Ryukyu Ti and we have our karate today.

For those who think, thought or consider kata a waste, read this book then other books of kata such as, "The Way of Kata," by Wilder and Kane Sensei, and find out how much you are possibly missing in this truly traditional method of karate-jutsu-do!