Heian 1-5, kata is learned by all students up to and including Black Belts. These forms are often mis-understood - thought to be all about the performance, when really it is the application of the movements that was important. Author John Burke takes us through the essential history and background to the 5 kata, and shows us not only how to perform the moves, but also what each move means in a simple but practical fashion that delivers real meaning for Karate students everywhere.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #985735 in Books
• Published on: 2006-09
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Synopsis
Heian 1-5, kata is learned by all students up to and including Black Belts. These forms are often mis-understood - thought to be all about the performance, when really it is the application of the movements that was important. Author John Burke takes us through the essential history and background to the 5 kata, and shows us not only how to perform the moves, but also what each move means in a simple but practical fashion that delivers real meaning for Karate students everywhere.

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Customer Reviews

Putting the Heian kata where they belong
For a long time I've heard others say, 'these are just training kata', 'they are to teach beginners or children' or they are 'for the purpose of the grading syllabus only'. This handy to carry book on bunkai puts the Heian (or Pinan) kata right back on the map, as forms that contain many useful techniques. As the author says no karate-ka should practise kata that they don't understand, and no black belt should be teaching kata without bunkai. Packed with a full study of all the kata from Heian Shodan to Heian Godan, it is real value for money. This is not a step by step book about how to perform the kata. It is a book that demonstrates how the techniques can be used in common fighting situations. The approach to kata application is down to earth and practical. Burke Sensie also has a good knowledge of how the flow of Chi can be affected by techniques, as well as mechanical manipulation of your opponent. The book has a short useful section on background information, history of karate and kata. It also sets out some of the principles of using and applying kata, and common acts of physical violence that the kata deals with. A book for grown up's not kids and perhaps of more interest to black belts teaching bunkai to their students, rather than the students themselves.

Karate kata
Another great book by John Burke. This isn't a book that will help you win points in a karate competition. But it will help you understand the heian kata and how they could work in a real life situation. The kata are broken down with clear photo's and informative text. John Burke has done a great job showing how the ancient kata of 100's of years ago can be used in todays world on the street.