Inbetween movements in Karate

 

 

 

I find it interesting and wanted to solicit your opinions regarding the in-between movements in kata. Some teachers put a lot of importance on the in-between movements and transitions. Other teachers place more emphasis on the actual techniques. Still others focus on changes in speed and power.

Lastly, some teachers place the most emphasis on footwork; all footwork within the kata.

In short, my feeling/method is to practice all aspects of the kata somewhat in this fashion:

1) Learn the pattern and techniques
2) Focus on the stances
3) Focus on executing the techniques properly
3) Focus on the changes of speed and power (Go and Ju)
4) Focus on the timing
5) Focus on the transitions
6) Focus on the breathing
7) Now add in all of the proper body height changes, attempt to make long movements such as Zuri ashi proper, proper kime in the right places, and other little details.
8) Repeated practice with all of these aspects seeking to bring the kata to life.

I'm curious as to how much time and emphasis you folks put on the in-between movements or if your method of learning and practicing kata are similar to mine.

Steve Wilson