Kihon
BASIC TECHNIQUES
The basic techniques of Karate consist of striking, kicking and blocking. These essential elements require countless repetition if they are to be come effective and to give a firm foundation from which to proceed to higher levels
if practiced correctly, the basic(KIHON) will enhance not only the physical aspect of training but also the mental aspect. This is achieved by trying to make every movement better than the proceeding one. The karateka must concentrate on each technique with full power regardless of fatigue. It is through this accumulated effort the one trains the spirit and progresses.
If you try and avoid this repetitive training in favour of practicing more elaborate techniques first, then you will find that your progress will be slow. This is shown when beginners show spirit on only the first and last technique in 5 step and coast through the three middle ones. In five movements, you must pay equal attention t all techniques as each one should be executed as if it were the last technique you do.
You must never rush the movement, but only go as fast as you can whilst retaining the correct execution of the technique. Through practice and repetition, this will lead to correct understanding of the technique itself. Speed is something that will gradually build up as you perfect your techniques.
Hanshi Asano is a firm believer in the traditional method of learning karate and pays particular emphasis to Kihon during his lessons, no matter what level of karateka is training.