***ANNOUNCEMENTS***

Ataru SKC Grading Success

Kata - "mould, model, style, shape, data type"

Kata is a culmination of techniques and combinations in a set form. Once again, as the level and experience of the Karateka increases, so does the complexity & difficulty of the Kata he/she will be asked to perform. Differing from Kihon, Kata are most often not linear in fashion, but more directional basing themselves on what could be classed as an 'imaginary fight' against multiple attackers.

Each Kata has its own underlying style. Some are strong and dynamic with a massive generation of power and robust movements as if to drive through oncoming opponents. Some are lightening quick in pace and movement as if the Karateka is attacked my multiple enemies in quick succession.

Besides the differing pace, speed and dynamics of each kata, there are differing points of view on how Kata should be performed. None can be said to be definitive, just as none can be said to be wrong. What should be of prime concern is why Kata is performed in such a way.

Knowledge of Kata is accumulative and should be sustained. Kata should not be forgotten once it has been graded on and should be practiced regularly.

Please use the links to the right for Streaming Video examples of some of the primary JKA System Katas. These kata were filmed in one night in 2003 (about an hour all in all) and are by no means 'best efforts' nor the latest with regards to accepted technique. They are more to illustrate the range of Shotokan Kata and to be used as an aid to memory. As and when we have more time to produce more precise examples of kata, updates will be published.

(Windows Media Player .WMV format)

Many thanks to Sensei Leland Vandervort (Nidan) for help in producing the Media.