TRAINING
REGIMEN
Kihon
(基本,) is a
Japanese term meaning "basics" or "fundamentals." The term is used to
refer to the basic techniques that are taught and practiced as the foundation of most Japanese karate styles. The practice and mastery of kihon is essential to all advanced training.
Kata (型 ) is a Japanese word meaning form, describing detailed choreographed patterns of movements
Kumite (組手) means sparring and is
one of the three main sections of karate training, along with kata and kihon. Kumite is the
part of karate in which you train against an adversary, using the techniques
learnt from the kihon and kata.
Bunkai (分解,), literally meaning "analysis" or "disassembly", is a term
used in Japanese karate referring to the application of fighting
techniques extracted from the moves within the kata.
Endurance exercise or endurance training
consists of performing low- to medium-intensity exercise for long periods
of time.
Flexibility, or suppleness, is very important for range
of motion of all joints in the application of techniques such as kicks. The ability to achieve a full range
of movements – to turn, stretch, twist and bend – without any stiffness, aching or suffering a spine or joint
injury is defined as suppleness.
The benefits of strength training include increased muscle,
tendon and ligament strength, bone density, flexibility, tone, metabolic rate and postural support. Strength training (as
in kata) also requires the use of good form.
