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Kata is often described as a set sequence of karate moves organised into a prearranged fight against
imaginary opponents. The kata consists of kicks, punches, sweeps, strikes, blocks and throws. Body
movement in the various kata includes, stepping, twisting, turning, dropping to the ground and
jumping.
In this article we list the 26 standard Shotokan kata that are practiced by millions of karateka all
over the world.
Several Shotokan groups have introduced kata from other styles into their training but when the
Japan Karate Association (JKA) was formed by Nakayama Sensei, he laid these 26 kata down as the
training kata for the JKA karateka. Even today, many thousands of Shotokan Dojo only practice
these 26 Kata.
Kata should be executed with the correct attitude first and foremost, if the karate practitioner has an
understanding of the kata, each fast move will be executed with speed, power and intent. The
karateka will execute the technique like it’s their last.
Kata is not a performance, or a demonstration, it is for the individual karateka to practice full
techniques with 'Ikken Hisatsu' (finishing blow or to kill with one blow).
There is most definitely a health aspect to kata, the practice of kata is great for fitness, keeping the
body soft, supple and agile. As the karateka gets older, a lot more emphasise is put on health and for
good reason.