When training in the dojo one normally has plenty of space to carry out a full range of manoeuvres. However, when training at home, this is not always feasible. Even if you have a nice big yard to train in, inclement weather can move your training indoors.
Luckily for me I have a dojo in the back of my garden. However, while it is fantastic for most training: I have the space for a makiwara, weights, mirrors and weapons, certain kata are impossible to train. Likewise training kihon up and down is difficult too. Many karate masters were known for their ability to adapt their training to their environment (e.g. Sensei Asai).
For kata there are a number of possible solutions to the problem of training in a confined space:
1. Choice of kata. Some kata take up less space than others, while some are absolute hogs.
A selection of kata that take up minimum space: Bassai Dai, Kanku Dai, Tekki Shodan, Nijushiho
The space hogs: Jion, Heian Shodan Kanku Sho, Gojushiho Dai and Sho.
Oddly the space taken up by a kata seems to have no bearing on its difficulty or number of moves. It’s also worth thinking about the shape of the space taken up by the kata. Nijushiho is boxlike, while Gankaku is much more linear, a narrow rectangle.
Kata from Goju-ryu are also worth considering: Gekisai-Dai ich/ni, Sanchin, Tensho, Saifa, all occupy very little space. (Although some are hogs – e.g. Sanseiryu)The Gekisai dai kata are a good replacement for the Heians in some respects.
Obviously this is of no use if you have no control over choice of kata (Such as for grading purposes)
2. Kata modification. Change the kata to fit the space.
I should put a warning on this method, while modifications for training purposes can be useful; they are absolutely no substitute for the real thing.
Many forms can be modified so as to take up less space. The Tekki are a good example. Rather than sideways stepping, simply raise the knee and back to the ground.
Using shorter stance substitution is a useful modification:
Naihanchi dachi for kiba dachi
Neko ashi dachi for kokutsu dachi
Sanchin dachi for zenkutsu dachi
You’ll find that in the main, these substitutions will allow for a full range of techniques in a much more compact space. However this method is not suited for beginners as it may impart poor habits.
3. Fragmenting the kata.
Practise one part at a time, break the form into bite sized chunks that don’t take up much room. For instance, practise the four shuto’s at the end of Heian shodan on their own as a mini kata. This can be very useful, as it helps you focus on the stubborn areas that you are finding more difficult.
All three options have their pros and cons. However I feel the last option is probably the most practical and beneficial.
Project Mawashi 