In the normal training it does and should involve kata bunkai but I
have found that most dojo do not teach bunkai with great depth rather
the simple, "this is a down block against a kick or punch" and
usually that is the end all.

With intense and continued research over the past 42 yrs of study I
in my dojo teach not only bunkai(application), but oyo(close quarter
combat) and Kakushite waza(hidden hand techniques) as well as tuite
(pressure points). My book recently published, "The Hidden Secrets
of Karate-do" talk about and shows some of this.

I of course try to teach more than simply block the kick and step
forward with oi-zuki(lunge punch) to counter. I am finding that
more and more sensei are indeed starting to realize it is not enough
to simply teach what I call, "kyu waza"(basic level applications) but
must educate themselves and their deshi(students).

Kata holds untold secrets to combat and incredible applications. If
you are ever in Cincinnati please feel free to visit with us to get a
slightly different view of kata from our training.

I hope that answers your question to some degree. Advanced level
sensei will teach more than simply block and punch in Shotokan.(I
hope).
Humbly,
Dwight Holley

--- In KOJF@yahoogroups.com, "Michael" <brooksmi79@...> wrote:
>
> Hello Everyone,
>
> I am curious if shotokan training involves the kata bunkai,
spacificly
> the pressure point striking, joint locks and throws?
>
> thanks and have nice day.
>
>
> Mike,
>