Repetition of Kata Training Vs. Shinken Gata

[monstereggnog]

Manaka-sensei,

Thank you for your response to my previous question.

My next question deals with the ideal within the Jinenkan of perfection of kata in training as a way of becoming masterful in combat. In my profession, I need tools for self-defense right away and may not have the necessary time to practice a kata thousands of times in order to get it right. How does the Jinenkan reconcile endless repetition of kata over the need for immediate self-protection ability? For example, muto dori kata may take years to get right, but I may need to use it tomorrow night if someone pulls a knife on me, so how would you recommend training for such a possibility?

Obviously kata training is vital to mastery of taijutsu, but a lot more goes into the development of a warrior than just practicing in front of a mirror. What do you teach your Jinenkan members to enable them to develop real-world skills from the start of training? Do you include randori in the training? What about henka?

Thanks very much for your response!

Frank Champas

[Fumio Manaka]

The basics are the basics because they are the most important techniques for fighting. There is no shortcut to developing reliable fighting skills; you need to practice correct technique and keep doing so. If somebody is learning to fly an airplane, you do not put them on a real plane before they know what the buttons and levers do. If beginners do randori, they will develop bad habits and it is also dangerous.

Manaka Unsui