Fundamental Principles and Kata

Recently a post by Sue C on evaluating others she mentioned her apprehension when observing and grading a Ni-dan kata because she did not know that kata. It got me to thinking and I remember an old post on learning and practicing kata.

I firmly believe that if a person learns "one" kata thoroughly and completely until they "master" it then it does not matter whether they learn more or not but if they do venture into more kata the time to learn additional kata is almost non-existent. Why? Well, as we have discovered there are fundamentals to all martial systems that cross all styles, etc. In learning this one kata if they learn and apply all the fundamental principles of martial systems then it matters not the style because implementing those principles will be instinctive and  natural.

So, what I am saying is this. If you have taken the time and effort to truly learn, I mean really learn, one kata you can learn them all in short order and simply apply the principles. Now, as to other systems/styles, the only caveat is that those unique systems still incorporate the fundamental principles yet they do "move" differently and they apply techniques differently but still; know that one kata, truly know that one kata.

Americans get caught up in the quantity of kata and styles and systems with out this fundamental principles as well as the unique system/style movement and applications and if they actually focused on their system and really know and understand it all in that one kata then all the others would become more accessible; I mean really accessible and not just window dressing to spruce up a resume.

As to SueC, as long as she knows and understands the fundamental principles behind martial systems then she can truly judge and evaluate a person of higher grade for kata, basics, self-defense, and kumite, etc. because she would look for the fundamental principles which, of course, is what every judge/evaluator should be seeing.

I wish to thank Steven J. Pearlman for the book "Book of Martial Power" that explains the fundamental principles for putting a name and explanation for those that were or are unconsciously known brings them up in the light where proper considerations can be applied and implemented into teaching martial systems. He, Rory Miller, Marc MacYoung and a few others have succinctly worded aspects of training and practice that provide fundamental material for novices and experts alike. The benefits of the Internet, Books, and other media!

Make sense? Yes? No? Maybe? Comments?

p.s. I would prefer someone of Sue's level provide evals of my karate because she/they have a fresh look and tend to NOT get caught up in personal preferences which should be a reminder to those of us who have been doing this a while that nothing is set in stone and we must remain open to any and all possibilities. Reminding us of what is important so we don't accidentally get lost in our own is important to instruct/teach/mentor karate-ka; martial artists!

Oh, Oh, another good question, when competing in kata at tournaments do the judges determine scores on "pretty and dramatic" or on "fundamental principles, proficiency, and competence?"