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We read about old masters taking ten to
twenty years to learn a form. Yet today, in most clubs, only a three
month period is allotted to this prior to a grading. Why is there
such a time discrepancy?
The
ancient forms were true reflection of the art holding the keys to
the mystery and manipulation of energy that encompassed martial arts
fighting.
Later, the Pinan or Heian forms were
designed by Itosu, one of the great Okinawan masters. They were so
designed that karate could be introduced into the elementary school
system without the children hurting themselves. Today, many of the
ITF forms bear a close resemblance to these adapted forms. Hence it
is reasonable to state that current forms have been watered down
from a watered down system. As a result, the explanations taught to
the masses now focus only on the block, kick and punch.
To be true to the art we need to
research for the original forms with their accompanying knowledge.
Indeed, the life protection techniques are all available in the
forms to those who are alert.
If anyone has comment or questions
about forms as related to this alternative explanation please feel
free to correspond via this magazine or by email and I will respond. |
