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Iain Abernethy
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Das Heian Kata Bunkai Phänomen by Christian Wedewardt

Das Heian Kata Bunkai Phänomen by Christian Wedewardt

German: https://www.amazon.de/dp/3750433593/

English Version: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Heian-Kata-Bunkai-Phenomenon-Systematical/dp/3751935495/

Direct from Christian! https://karatepraxis.wordpress.com/2020/10/29/pre-order-the-english-version-now/

Kata ist der Boss! Die Heian-Kata-Bunkai Lernreihe bietet dem Karateka die Möglichkeit, sich systematisch mit Möglichkeiten und Alternativen auseinanderzusetzen, um sich in bestimmten Situationen verteidigen zu können. Mit diesem Buch möchte ich innerhalb der überlieferten Heian-Kata-Formen zu einem Verständnis über das WARUM beitragen. Der Leser dieses Buches, vom Anfänger bis zum Dan-Träger, wird diese Katas zukünftig mit einem realitätsbezogen Bewusstsein ausführen.

Iain’s Introduction (English Version):

Karate is undergoing something of a metamorphosis at the moment. It is simultaneously reaching back to its roots while also adopting modern training methods. Christian Wedewardt is a very influential karateka and his teaching is at the cutting edge of this metamorphosis. His teaching draws strongly from the roots of traditional karate – particularly in regards to the lessons drawn from the traditional kata – and yet it is innovative and contemporary. To me, it is a perfect example of what karate should be!

A tree needs heathy and strong roots. However, it should never be forgotten that one of the key purposes of those roots is to support new growth. If we don’t see new branches appearing, then it’s a sure sign that the roots are dead. The true tradition of karate has always been one of growth and constant change. As Gichin Funakoshi famously wrote in Karate-Do: My Way of Life, “Times change, the world changes, and martial arts must change too.” We are not talking about change for the sake of change here, but steady progress across the generations.

Another quote that I love on karate’s evolution is that of Choshin Chibana:

“Karate, as it is transmitted, changes every few years. This is a common phenomenon. It happens because a teacher must continue to learn and adds his personality to the teachings. There is an old martial arts saying that states that karate is much like a pond. In order for the pond to live, it must have streams that feed and replenish it. Without those streams the pond becomes stagnant and dies.”

Christian is certainly someone who adds his personality to his teachings! He’s an utter joy to be on the dojo floor with. His enthusiasm is hugely infectious, and his knowledge and insights are inspirational. His drills are functional and innovative; grounded in raw function while being fun to practise. There are not many like Christian and I’m delighted he’s written this book!

Christian’s approach to the Heian (Pinan) kata is indicative of his wider approach to karate: grounded in tradition while being innovative and contemporary. The approach recorded in these pages is rock solid. It all holds together as the system these kata are supposed to represent. Funakoshi told us in Karate-Do Kyohan that, “once [the Heian Series] has been mastered, one can be confident of their ability to defend themselves in most situations.” Christian proves the truth of that statement.

Well done for purchasing this book. You’ve made a very smart move!

Iain Abernethy 7th dan BCKA, WCA, EKF.