Although You-Tube is a great learning tool, there are good things to watch and not so good things. There are videos that can help you to be better at Kata, Weapons, Fighting and just about anything else a person would ever want to know.
For the benefit of this session, let’s focus on kata. In our system, katas have a unique purpose. Typically, traditional katas do not contain “practical” self-defense techniques. Consider that many “traditional katas” were developed many years ago. Those founding martial arts fathers believed in techniques and movements that in contemporary times have been proven not to be as effective as previously imagined. Looking at almost any MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fight should easily illustrate this point.
Instead, look at “traditional katas” as a means to improve form and fluidity, moving from basic combinations through intermediate and onto advanced traditional techniques.
Looking at martial arts katas on-line can give you an idea on what additional katas you may want to learn. Find a kata that either appeals to your skill level and/or has just the right flare for how you want to move. I have found katas that will demonstrate each move in regular speed and in slow motion. Take your time and ensure you understand all the specific nuances of their hand positions, blocks, hand strikes, kicks and stances. Also, note the timing of each move and combination in the kata. You might find that using a different timing when you perform that kata may provide just one more thing to separate your kata from everyone else performing the same kata.