Kata ()

Kata can be defined as a series of prearranged defensive and offensive movements manipulating the body as a tool for survival under circumstances of one or more attackers.

Karate is just not a sport or movenment. It is a “ART” of martial and Kata is which designed to acquire skills in self-defense and historic Bujitsu.

Kata could be catagoried in Fukyu Kata (General), Kihon Kata (Basic), Heisu Kata (closed hand) and Kaishu Kata (open hand). Fukyu kata such as: Taikyoku, Gekisai 1 & 2. Basic kata such as: Sanchin. Closed hand kata such as Tensho. And the last, open hand kata such as: Seienchin, Kururunfa and Suparunpei. In November, 1974 - 4 basic Kata Sanchin, Tensho, Saifa and Seiyunchin were decided and standardized by the JKF Goju-Kai.

There may be a few different Kata systems of Goju-Ryu. Though from Dojo to Dojo they are different as well. However, in the highest form of understanding we can translate Kata as 'Zen in motion' in contrast to 'zazen' or sitting meditation. It is an understanding that requires depth in philosophy, an imagination of opponents and uncommon situations and mastery of basics within your own particular style.

Goju-Ryu Kata