Practical Kata Bunkai: What is 3K Karate?

https://www.iainabernethy.co.uk/

In this video I define “3K karate” and contrast it with more practical and traditional approaches to karate. Most approaches to karate will include the 3Ks: kihon (basics), kata (forms) and kumite (sparring). What causes the radical difference between “3K karate” and practical karate is the nature of the 3Ks and the way in which they integrate, or don’t integrate.

“3K karate” has kihon, kata and kumite practised as largely separate entities; where each “K” has self-contained competence as its aim i.e. they do kihon to get good at kihon, kata to get good at kata, and kumite to get good at kumite. “Good” is also an arbitrary dictate as opposed to any objective measure.

By contrast practical karate – which is closer in method and intent to the karate of the past – has kihon, kata and kumite working together as a whole with the objective aim of enhanced combative efficacy within a civilian context (self-defence).

The video expands on these ideas further and, agree or disagree, I hope you find it an interesting watch.

All the best,

Iain