This book, first published in November 2015 and the final instalment of a four-volume series, examines Heian Godan. With practical application drills based on both the study of the reactions of students to common forms of aggression and violence in high pressure scenario simulations and years of research into violent crime, it contains a look at some of the myths surrounding the #bunkai of kata, along with a review of the rationale for using interlocking drills to progress from static to dynamic training, and an illustrated discussion of the difference between form and function in training for flexibility, fitness, and fighting.
The Pinan Flow System refers to the ability to train karateka to flow seamlessly between ballistic and grappling responses using techniques and tactics embedded in the kata, and illustrates why the Pinan / Heian #kata, practised by so many karateka, are an important and misunderstood part of the legacy of Okinawan karate to modern martial artists. Far from being simply kata for beginners, they reflect the distillation of the knowledge and tactics of the father of modern karate, and are an essential training tool and technical manual for beginner and black belt alike.
Available as a paperback or ebook: