Bassai Dai
Bassai Dai translates as "To storm a fortress" and is practiced in many styles of karate. Although there are many different versions of bassai (passai), there is no mistaking that all the versions as Bassai, come from the original Passai kata.
It is believed that there were two versions of Passai practiced on Okinawa.
Some karate historians believe one version of Bassai/Passai, was shown to the local Okinawan martial artists by a Chinese martial arts expert, who lived on the island, the other version was taught by master Sokon Matsumrua.
The one we are referring to here, is the shotokan Bassai Dai, which many believe came from the Okan Oyadomari lineage.
When a karateka moves from 4th kyu to 3rd kyu, Bassai dai is usually the first kata taught. Many shotokan karateka use Bassai dai to test for all their brown belt examinations and indeed, the coveted black belt test.
The first move in bassai dai epitomizes this shotokan kata. A very strong move, driving forward off the left leg, with a knee attack and strike.
This karate kata also has some fast double block combinations. Shotokan karate bassai dai is known for the fast uchiuke sotouke and uchiuke uchiuke combinations. First block is with the lead left arm, so the body ends up in the hanmi (side on) position, the second block is a right uchi uke, finishing in the shomen (square) position.
Bassai dai is a very strong karate kata, but it is also great for fast changes in direction. Sensei and Sempai will shout for more hip rotation! So here is an excellent exercise for developing strong hip rotation.
1.Really work this combination, it starts with a left tate shuto (edge of the hand) in shizentai (natural stance), then comes a punch block combination. When you are bending the arm, just before the right arm uchi uke, try and keep the body and shoulders still.
2. So right before the uchi uke, you should be standing in shizentai (natural stance), with the right arm bent accross the body to the left side of the chest. Now, as you block, pivot strongly, 90 degrees to the left, into a very small front stance. This is an awkward combination at first, but by working this sequence, strong hips will develop.
There are also some unusual karate moves in this kata. Yamazuki (U punch), the three consecutive low punches in kibadachi, the two sweeping blocks in a long front stance after the yamazuki. The slow grab and fumikomi (stamping kick), and the slow pull up, with both hands cupped, then rolling into two fists above the head.
Of all the shotokan karate kata, Bassai dai is probably the one that sums up shotokan karate!
Finding a good karate instructor, is not as hard as it used to be, there are now many karate dojo, that have been in existance for many, many years. Download a free bassai dai shotokan pdf and supplement your karate training with these free online videos, karate lessons for beginners.
