Where to start?

 

When you approach how to find the application potential of any movement from any kata, the first thing is to cast aside the first things you were told as a beginner. Not that they are incorrect but there is often so much more that can occur.

 

Let’s take the opening rising X block from  Chinto kata. It contains ever so many more possibilities than just rising to deflect a strike upwards, which of course it also does.

 

When the arms form the X there are 5 possibilities to consider.

 

1. Where the arms form the V on top.

2. Where the arms form the < on the right side.

3. Where the arms form the > on the left side.

4. Where the arms form the ^ on the bottom.

5. Where the arms cross in the center.

 

Each of them are different potentials that can be used alone or in combination with the following movements of the kata. To control the opponents strike, to open a response or even to eliminate the potential threat itself.

 

A fuller understanding of any technique must consider many potentials, then you have to make sure you actually train your new understanding until you can make it work. Only at that point can you feel you understand what any gesture offers.

 

Then you move closer to be able to conclude any threat with any technique that presents itself for your use.

 

IMO it is what is meant by No Fixed Attitude, No Fixed Response. Being able to use Total Spontaneity.