Kata (Fundamental Training)

Kata is a series of karate movements and techniques joined together to make a sequence. Kata are designed to enable the practice of all karate techniques. There are just over 25 kata within the KDS, ranging from quite simple kata involving only a few techniques, to very complex kata requiring jumps and physical dexterity. If a particular kata can be performed well, then one has grasped many of the fundamentals of karate - concentration, balance, coordination and technique.

"There is infinitely greater value in studying a single kata until one has digested it well than in possesing a shallow knowledge of thirty kata" - Gichin Funakoshi (Karate-Do Nyumon).

Shorin-ryu Forms

Taikyoku - First Cause

Shodan (1st)
Nidan (2nd)
Sandan (3rd)

Heian - Peaceful Mind

Shodan (1st)
Nidan (2nd)
Sandan (3rd)
Yodan (4th)
Godan (5th)

Bassai - To Penetrate a Fortress

Dai (Minor)
Sho (Major)

Kanku - To Look at the Sky

Dai (Minor)
Sho (Major)