Path notes on use of Kata part I

One of the biggest traps lie when you start to collect Kata. Kata is a way of teaching, and not something to be memorized and used as an application to a specific attack. In a fight there is not time to think or remember what to do. Your body reacts naturally from thousands of hours of practice. My note book at this point is for reference so I can teach what I have forgotten. I attempt to teach my students how to build a beautiful cabinet, not to be the master of hammer and nail. Distance and timing, while wrapping your opponent up in space with nothing to cling to, is just as important as moving freely. You should not worry about making mistakes while training but rather develop a flexible frame of mind which will allow you to flow into a fresh solution. Trying to win, using power and being set in your ways in a real fight will get you killed. Not only do our thoughts influence our bodies but it is also true that our bodies influence our thoughts. Do not try and fit a situation into a pre-set plan, rather adapt to your surroundings. Also once you stop thinking about individual technique and start flowing, there will be no fixed point for your opponent to attack. You must pace yourself while training Kata being careful not to rush. The speed will be there when you need it, but it is much more important to break things down so your flow does not leave openings. When training with a partner try to match their speed and not react to quickly, allow time to see where they are going and only move quickly when you finish technique.