KATA

Kata, a fundamental aspect of karate, embodies a structured series of movements simulating combat scenarios against imaginary adversaries. This practice encompasses a diverse range of techniques including kicks, punches, sweeps, strikes, blocks, and throws, requiring precise body movements such as stepping, twisting, turning, dropping, and jumping.

In the discipline of Shotokan Karate, kata transcends mere performance or demonstration; it serves as a platform for individual karate practitioners to hone their skills, each technique poised as potentially lethal, emphasizing meticulous attention to form, timing, and rhythm.

The Shotokan tradition encompasses 26 distinct katas, each intricately balancing fast-paced with deliberate or forceful movements. Central to these katas are two pivotal moments known as kiai points, where the karateka unleashes a “spirit cry,” symbolizing total dedication of body, mind, and spirit, channeling energy with precision into the technique at hand. This concept of kiai echoes across various styles of karate, serving as a unifying principle.

Crucially, as students progress through the ranks, from kyu levels to Dan ranks, diligent and regular practice of all previously learned katas remains essential for continued advancement and mastery of the art.

Below is a comprehensive compilation of all 26 katas, accompanied by their respective number of moves, significance, and a demonstration video for each:

Kata

Moves

Meaning

Videos

Heian Shodan

21

Peaceful Mind One

Heian Nidan

26

Peaceful Mind Two

Heian Sandan

20

Peaceful Mind Three

Heian Yondan

27

Peaceful Mind Four

Heian Godan

23

Peaceful Mind Five

Tekki Shodan

23

Iron Horse One

Tekki Nidan

24

Iron Horse Two

Tekki Sandan

26

Iron Horse Three

Bassai Dai

42

Penetrating the Fortress - Big

Bassai Sho

27

Penetrating the Fortress - Small

Kanku Dai

65

To look at the Sky - Big

Kanku Sho

48

To look at the Sky - Small

Enpi

37

Flying Swallow

Jion

47

Love (and) Goodness

Gankaku

42

Crane on the Rock

Hangetsu

41

Half Moon

Jitte

24

Ten Hands

Chinte

32

Incredible Hands

Sochin

41

Preserve Peace

Meikyo

33

Mirror of the soul

Jiin

38

Named after the Saint

Gojushiho Dai

67

54 Steps - Big

Gojushiho Sho

65

54 Steps - Small

Nijushiho

24

24 Steps

Wankan

24

Crown of a king

Unsu

48

Cloud Hands