Last night we spent some time on kihon, which is often translated as 'basics' or 'fundamentals', but in fact - translated literally - combines the words 'ki' (chi in Chinese) and 'hon' which means 'main', so it can be taken to mean  'the main or basic way of getting the ki/chi flowing'.

The practice of kihon serves to get the energy flowing through the body in the most effective and efficient manner, using the principles that are embedded in the kihon, namely the transfer of bodyweight through the stances, the correct alignment of feet, hips and shoulders, and the correct use of the stretch reflex to 'explode' the technique, among other things.

Kihon is deliberately formal so that the practitioner can seek to perfect a simple movement. Once one movement is perfected, it's easier to use that ability in any number of variations that might occur later. The strict nature of kihon helps the student to learn how to see/visualize the meridians of ki (power-lines) along which techniques travel. This ability to visualize the lines of entry and attack are vital in combat.

Kihon is worth spending time on, though at some point, it's also important to leave it behind and try to put the learnings into practice in a less structed, and more fluid and dynamic format.