Katas (EN)

What is a kata?

A kata is a pre‑arranged sequence of offensive and defensive movements that encodes the strategy, timing and philosophy of each Karate school. Training kata builds muscle memory, breath control, focus (zanshin) and power. Key references: Gichin Funakoshi Karate‑Dō Kyōhan (1935), Chōjun Miyagi Karate‑Dō Gaisetsu (1934).

Gichin Funakoshi
Jichin Funajoshi (Shotokan)
Chojun Miyagi
Chojun Miyagi (Goju Ryu)

Families & series by major style

Shotokan – 26 official kata (JKA)

  • Heian (Shodan → Godan) – introductory set.
  • Tekki (Shodan → Sandan) – lateral hip mechanics.
  • Intermediate kata: Bassai Dai/Sho, Kanku Dai/Sho, Empi, Jitte, Gankaku, Hangetsu.
  • Advanced kata: Jion, Jiin, Chinte, Sochin, Nijushiho, Gojushiho Sho/Dai, Meikyo, Wankan, Unsu.

Goju‑Ryū – Breathing & circular power

  • Sanchin & Tensho – breathing and internal power forms.
  • Gekisai Dai Ichi & Dai Ni – beginner kata devised by Chōjun Miyagi in 1940.
  • Mid‑level kata: Saifa, Seiyunchin, Shisochin.
  • Advanced kata: Sanseiru, Seipai, Kururunfa, Seisan, Suparinpei (108 movements).

Wadō‑Ryū – Shōrin meets Jūjutsu

  • Pinan (Shodan → Godan) – tactical foundation.
  • Naihanchi (Shodan → Sandan) – side‑on stability.
  • Shōrin‑derived classics: Kushanku, Chinto, Bassai, Wanshu.
  • Higher level: Seishan, Niseishi, Rohai, Jion, Jitte, Unsu, Gojushiho, Superempi.

Shitō‑Ryū – Encyclopedic syllabus

  • Pinan / Heian – school module.
  • Naihanchi – Shōrin roots.
  • Naha‑te line: Sanchin, Tensho, Seisan, Seipai, Kururunfa, Suparinpei.
  • Tomari‑te & others: Chinto, Wanshu, Rohai, Jion, Jitte, Matsukaze, Shinpa, Bassai Dai/Sho, Kanku Dai/Sho.

How to study kata

  1. Memorise the pattern slowly with visual aids.
  2. Polish mechanics (stance, breathing, kime).
  3. Drill bunkai with a partner to grasp practical meaning.
  4. Add timing, rhythm & kiai as intended by the originator.

“Kata is the root; free‑sparring is the fruit.” — Kenwa Mabuni