As traditional karate instructors, we are honor-bound to teach our art using the most complete and correct karate instruction manner possible. Doing anything else is a disservice to our students, instructors, and chosen art. The question then becomes, what is the most complete and correct manner?
Does teaching in the most “complete and correct karate instruction” manner mean everyone should practice the same way? No, it does not. However, the commitment to maintaining a “complete and correct” approach while recognizing the inherent variations among different lineages and individuals is essential for fostering a respectful and effective training environment.
Take Seisan Kata, for example. At least thirty martial art systems include Seisan Kata as a formal part of their curriculum. All three of the main Okinawan karate branches (Shuri-te, Naha-te, and Tomari-te) teach versions of Seisan Kata. While many of these Seisan Kata look similar in execution, several are also quite different. Which version would you call wrong?
Even within Isshin-ryu, Seisan Kata can have different looks. Did you learn the kata from Tatsuo Shimabuku or Angi Uezu? Did you learn it from one of Tatsuo Shimabuku’s first-generation Marine students like Harold Mitchum, AJ Advincula, or Sherman Harrill? Or did you learn it from a student of these first-generation practitioners?
A broader truth in martial arts is that while there can be stylistic and individual variations, the underlying principles—especially biomechanics—remain consistent. This focus on proper body mechanics as the foundation for effective techniques ensures that students can adapt their training to their unique physical attributes and experiences without compromising their integrity.
During a Carson seminar in the mid-90s, Sensei Harrill had several attendees from different Isshin-ryu lineages demonstrate Seisan Kata. There were differences. Sensei Harrill commented that while there were undoubtedly differences, ninety percent of the kata as performed was the same. He observed that, instead of focusing on the ninety percent of the kata that was the same, everyone wanted to argue over the ten percent that was not.
Variations in technique are to be expected. Do we all have identical builds, heights, weights, or thought processes? Some of us deal with old injuries or physical limitations. In addition, many of us learned from different instructors. Is it realistic to assume that everyone’s kata would or should be identical?
How do we teach karate in the most “complete and correct” manner? I would argue that consistency is key within any dojo. New students should see consistency in how kihon or kata are performed. The emphasis on consistency within a dojo is vital for beginners. It helps create a structured learning environment where students can build a solid foundation. As they progress, introducing the concept of variations becomes a valuable teaching tool, allowing them to appreciate the adaptability of karate to their bodies and situations.
The most crucial aspect that must be correct is body mechanics or biomechanics. The human body and its structure determine proper body mechanics. Body mechanics do not change from style to style or art to art. This is because they are determined by the physical structure of our body—not by the art we study.
The human body can only move powerfully in so many ways. While different arts might employ these powerful (mechanically sound) movements differently, the underlying body mechanics behind the movements are the same. The results might often look quite a bit different.
Seisan Kata, performed by Sensei Harrill or me, would look quite similar to the casual observer. However, there were subtle but crucial differences. There was also an effortlessness to his techniques when he demonstrated kata bunkai that seemed impossible to replicate. However, I began to understand those subtle but crucial differences – it was proper body mechanics. As I began to understand this and correct the body mechanics in my kata, the changes I experienced in the efficiency and effectiveness of my techniques were dramatic.
My growth journey through seminars and interactions with different instructors and styles underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. It’s essential to value the essence of karate beyond mere techniques; it’s about cultivating an understanding of movement, intention, and personal expression within a framework that respects tradition.
Ultimately, the challenge is to balance honoring karate’s roots and embracing practitioners’ individuality. By focusing on the principles of body mechanics and fostering a spirit of inquiry and respect among students, we can ensure, as instructors, that they receive the most complete and correct karate instruction possible, tailored to their unique journeys in martial arts.