when and by whom

I think that it does matter "when and by whom" a kata was created.

Here's an example that is based upon my own reasons for practicing forms.

I believe that forms should be worthwhile and correct.

I no longer practice the Tracy version of Long 6. It is a weapons defense form that history shows was developed (not by Mr Parker) to be a competition kata.

Many Tracy practitioners like Long 6 and have won with it. In that regard it has served its creator's purpose.

But, my goals are different and I can not practice a form that teaches and reinforces the idea of stepping back on a pistol threat, or stepping to 12:00 for a low knife thrust, etc. I teach my students to visualize the attack so that their responses can be tactically correct. Why would I have them practice something that contradicts that training philosophy?

The techinques are not taught that way so they should not be done that way in the form. The common reasoning is the line that its just the "kata version".

The history of the kata and its creator's purpose are important because I do not believe in discarding techniques or forms. If I do so without thoroughly understanding the technique or form then I may be discarding useful information. In other words, understanding the history of the form may help me to make the right decision based upon my needs.

Jim