[triarmarm]

Kendo kata have so many benefits, ranging from posture, stance, gripping the sword in the correct way, footwork, balance, breathing, the list is endless.

Here in Japan, where most people start kendo at a young age, kata are not taught so early, (as has been commented elsewere, usually before a grading) whether due to kids' perceived or actual lack of interest in kata as compared to shinai kendo, or the often heard excuse - kata are too hard for kids. (which is even more cause for surprise when we get sensei going to New Zealand and finding 10-16 year old kids doing better kata than the average Japanese 5th dan)

On the other hand, I've been told by several 8th and 9th dan sensei that when teaching adults, it is best to start with kata practice, as you get a greater appreciation of the basic principles underlying kendo and the use of the sword. Not only is it more controlled, giving you more time to concentrate on things like footwork, posture, breathing, kamae, correct striking and so on, but everything you'll ever need in your kendo career is all contained within the kata.

And to hear Inoue sensei talk about the meaning behind the kata themselves, is to have your eyes opened to the entire philosophy behind kendo itself.

Obviously different sensei have different approaches to teaching, but certainly express an interest in learning this vital aspect of kendo.