Kata

The meaning of Kata in Japanese is Shape and Form. It is a collection of strikes, kicks, and blocks depicting a defensive and counter-attack movements against single or multiple attackers. Kata training is very demanding as it requires endless efforts in repeating each Kata with an ultimate goal of perfecting the moves, timing, and finishing of each Kata.

In accordance with Japan Karate Association, there are 26 known Kata. The best reference for these Kata(s) is the JKA Standard Kata Video(s) or Best Karate Series 1 through 11 by Masatoshi Nakayma.

•Peaceful Way

Heian Shodan
Heian Nidan
Heian Sandan
Heian Yondan
Heian Godan

•Iron Horse

Tekki Shodan
Tekki Nidan
Tekki Sandan

•To penetrate a fortress

(dai=big, sho=small)
Bassai Dai
Bassai Sho

•Viewing the sky

Kanku Dai
Kanku Sho

•Flying swallow

Empi

•Named after the temple

Jion

•Named after the saint

Jiin

•Half moon

Hangetsu

•Crane on a rock

Gankaku

•Ten hands

Jitte

•Incredible hands

Chinte

•24 steps

Nijushiho

•Preserve Peace

Sochin

•Hand of a cloud

Unsu

•54 steps

Gojushiho Dai
Gojushiho Sho

•Crown of a king

Wankan

•Mirror of the soul

Meikyo

Videos