Earlier in the summer, I did a three-week focused study on Katas. As a refresher, a Kata is a set series of moves and actions done repeatedly. Katas are helpful training tools because they can develop muscle memory, combo moves, and flow outside of a fight.
As I studied, I wanted to write down the katas I developed. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to describe fencing techniques on paper. So I developed a system of shorthand codes to convey specific actions, which I’m pretty proud of, if I do say so myself.
Creating a Zine
After I finished the study, I took some time to think of how I wanted to share the katas I developed. That’s when I stumbled upon a Zine (pronounced ZEEN).
Zines are short, self-published booklets and most are just a single page folded up.
Perfect!
So without further ado, I present Kane’s Katas: A Series of Zines!
There are few zines in the series currently. The first is Instructions, which explain what they are and how to read Shorthand. The next three all focus on a specific aspect of fencing, which are Footwork, Blocks, and Attacks.
All you have to do is print and fold them! Super easy!
If you don’t know how to fold a zine, I’ve included a video below to demonstrate.
