The Kata name Enpi means “Flying Swallow”. It is because of the movements in the Kata that resembles the up and down flight of Swallows. The light and fast movements of the Shorin style katas are very much evident in Enpi. As the title suggests, we can base the application of this Kata on the qualities of the Swallow. The Swallow has great maneuverability, speed and endurance. They catch their prey on a wing or while it is in flight. Though occasionally, they can snatch their prey while on the branch or on the ground.
The Swallow is very elusive and can evade a Falcon’s attack. Just like the Swallow, speed must be used to overwhelm the enemy. One must be able to attack high and low and be able to strike while on the go, which means you are able to strike while moving. To have maneuverability means to be able to change direction or execute tactics that will break the opponents cohesion and gain advantages in battle, whether offensively pursuing the enemy or defensively getting away or evading the enemy. Your team's movement is always faster than the enemy. In a one on one fight, your speed depends on your agility. Your speed should overwhelm and break your opponents balance. Be elusive, explosive and confusing to your opponent. We should consider these principles when we practice the "Oyo"; the practical application of this Kata.
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| The Swallow has speed and maneuverability for attacking its prey and evading predators. |
One must have the endurance to see the battle through. Often, a protracted war will drain resources, lower the morale and lead to heavy casualties and losses. On a one on one fight, one must end the fight quickly but if it goes the distance then one must be able to sustain and finish strong.
The original name of Enpi is Wanshu which is believed to be the name of a Chinese emissary to Okinawa who was also a martial artist. Either Wanshu created the Kata or the Kata was just named after him to honor him. The Kata however, is widely known as “the Dumping Form” which is because of the kata guruma or the shoulder wheel throwing technique near the end of the Kata.
Applying the tactics of Enpi or the flying Swallow in our activities, we must use speed; finish our tasks quickly so that we can accomplish more. Also the longer we take to finish a task the more energy, time and other resources are wasted; the project or endeavor becomes costly and morale and interest
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| The Swallow can outmaneuver the Falcon. |
goes down. If the tasks require a long time to finish one must have endurance to sustain and see the project through. If things are not going as it should be one must be comfortable in changing directions, apply a different approach or take another position to solve the problem. These are characteristics of the Swallow that we can use for success.
