Ten No Kata: The Beauty in Simplicity

Unlike other kata, Ten No Kata does not contain complex movements or distinctive characteristics. Nor is it particularly 'flashy'. Compared to Unsu, Kanku Sho, or even Heian Nidan, it may seem almost too simple.

However, there is a beauty in the simplicity of Ten No Kata.

Before we go any further, it is important to note that Ten No Kata was created and developed by Gichin Funakoshi and his son Gigo. Unlike other kata, it is not widely practised today and, over the years, has become more of a kihon drill. However, some still teach it—and thankfully so.

Take the first oi-zuki, for example. Many practitioners simply step and punch, forgetting the critical nuances of the movement. But what if we examined it closely?

• Are you loading up on your leg, creating a spring-like feeling?
• Are you moving from your centre?
• Is your punch connecting with your stance as you move forward?
• Are you breathing correctly?

Similarly, when stepping back into gedan-barai, is it a smooth, controlled movement? Are you maintaining correct posture? Are you landing rooted and connected, or simply flailing your arms?

These are just two sections of the kata, yet there is so much to refine.

I train and teach this kata regularly for many reasons.

• Space efficiency: It requires only a single step forward and a single step back, making it ideal for limited training space.
• Technical precision: It challenges practitioners to refine their 'basic' techniques to a high standard.
• Physical and mental challenge: Despite its simplicity, it can be long and thought-provoking, pushing karateka both physically and mentally. 

When I teach this kata, I cannot stress this point enough: Find your karate.

Some practitioners train karate for health. After a long day at work, they may practise Ten No Kata slowly, focusing on deep breathing and stretching each movement. Others train for combat and perform the kata with intensity and tenacity. Personally, I practise Ten No Kata because I appreciate the feedback it gives me—whether I am connected, moving naturally, and using my whole body.