The World Shotokan Karate-do Federation in Ireland
In general the word MA means the space between two contestants or it can sometimes mean the time between two actions. In Japan where we have traditional cultural activities such as the Tea Ceremony and Flower Arranging as well as Japanese Noh plays, Ma is considered very important. For example, in the performance of Kata, there is the Ma between techniques. In Kumite the distance between the opponents, their strategy, the strength they have etc. is all refereed to as Ma. You can easily control your opponent by the good use of Ma. Unfortunately there is no textbook for the study of Ma it must be learned from experience.
When you concentrate your effort to make an attack you should pay careful attention to your breathing and also extra attention to the breathing of your opponent. It is a very good time to attack when your opponent is breathing out. You could also look for the very moment when he is about to begin breathing in. It is at these vital moments that your opponent will have his power and concentration diverted. Be careful not to hold your breath during the contest. During the performance of Kata other than at the appropriate Kiai point there is no need to make loud breathing noises. The important point is to breath in a natural relaxed manner.
During a fight if you find your self concentrating too much on your strategy or thinking what technique your opponent will use you are in danger of a stalemate. Mushin is the vitally important technique of mental detachment, that is, to see the fight from an objective point of view. This can only come from hard, long and consistent training. The mental aspect of Mushin can sometimes be thought of as unscientific but we must consider every aspect in the effort to win in combat. Most important things are through experiences, if not through experiences that is only dream.
This is the technique of turning or evading your opponent’s attack. In this technique distancing is an important element. If done correctly Taisabaki not only avoids your opponent's attack but also in turn opens your opponent up for your own attack.
The elbow should act as the axis. Do not move your elbow too high. The motion of the elbow should be as small as possible. If the elbow is too far from the body or out of alignment your motion will be slower and weaker, consequently you attack will be slower too. In defense your stance is important as well.
If you find yourselves stalemated by your opponent then you must use a feint. A feint is used to create a chance to attack. Your feint must be of good technique to cause your opponent to break his concentration. If you fail to fully commit yourself to a good feint and strong follow up you will leave yourself open to a counter attack.
In a feint you make a motion to your opponent preceding your attack. Drawing is the opposite; you open your self up to your opponents attack by dropping your guard waiting for the attack and then countering. Feints and Drawing are opposites like the head and the tails of a coin. Even if you are facing a strong opponent, with the two techniques of feinting and drawing you will create the chance to attack. Most first class contestants have these skills.
This technique is called YOMI in Japanese, that is the cultivation of the technique of sensing the intentions, the movements and techniques of your opponent. This can only be gained by experience. When you have YOMI your technique is very elegant and you do not waste time on irrelevant technique.
If your try too hard to judge your opponents actions you will fall pray to the state of indecision, "shall I do this or shall I do that' You must read the situation and act almost at the same time.
You must make extreme effort to develop good and clear concentration. Human beings can do almost anything if they concentrate and focus their attention. Without the ability to concentrate you will become weak and be in a dangerous position. Most first class Karateka can be control anytime and any situation.
You must choose your time to attack. Attacking without rhythm or reason is useless even if you have sufficient power and speed. This is a typical beginners mistake, constantly attacking. You must watch and wait until the chance either presents itself or you create the opportunity. Good chances to attack are:
The most important thing during a fight is that you should be relaxed yet on your guard. Do not have doubt or be scared and do not show hesitation. Do not waste your action but rather act speedily