Shotokan Myths: The Forbidden Answers to the Mysteries of Shotokan Karate by Yokota Kousaku

Author:Yokota, Kousaku [Yokota, Kousaku]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Publisher: Azami Press
Published: 2015-10-30T16:00:00+00:00

Not simply a way of learning Shotokan karate, but the ultimate reference against which one’s progress should be measured. A professionally produced series of videotapes...that will serve as an infallible guide to the correct method of performing Shotokan kata.

I respect Hooper Sensei for his deep knowledge and many long years of training at the JKA headquarters in Japan. Actually, I have enjoyed reading many of his articles in Shotokan Karate Magazine and respect him greatly as a karate instructor. However, I just cannot accept that this video is “the ultimate reference” or “an infallible guide to the correct method of performing Shotokan kata.” The demonstration of the kata is excellent, and this video definitely has value there. On the other hand, I have a serious issue with its bunkai. Frankly, many applications shown in this video are unrealistic and strange.

As you can see, those sensei apply the techniques and steps exactly the same way as they are required in the kata. You might ask, “So, what is the problem?” The problem is that they disregard or drop the true applications that are either hidden or modified movements in kata. In the video, those sensei perform so well that the techniques look natural and even realistic. I suspect most viewers believe all the bunkai techniques shown here are correct. Just try it yourself with the exact methods and steps shown in the video. You will find that many techniques do not work well. Do not blame your technique if you have problems as the maai and applications aren’t realistic or applicable.

Here are some of the applications that I consider strange or unrealistic. I will also provide the applications I learned from Sugano Sensei and Asai Sensei. I would like to ask the reader to compare them to see which group of applications makes better or more realistic sense.

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