Kata are the heart and soul of karate. They combine both basic and advanced techniques into a set of approximately 20 to 70 prearranged movements. Kata should be performed exactly the same each time the kata is practiced. The ending should be at the approximate location as the starting location. All the kata taught in Kei Shin Kan have been handed down from teacher to student by simple demonstration (in some instances for 300 years).
Kata is defined as prearranged fighting movements (both offensive and defensive) performed against an imaginary opponent. While the student is not actually hitting an opponent, they are performing these fighting techniques in such a manner as if an opponent is actually there. This is called focus (kime). Applying kime develops the student’s proficiency and expertise in karate which is essential for the development of armed or unarmed fighting skills. The execution of the kata should be as if a life threatening situation actually is occurring and the goal is to end the confrontation as quickly as possible ultimately with a single technique.
Many secrets of Karate are hidden within the kata. The secrets are found only through true knowledge of what is called bunkai (application of the kata applied to actual combat).
Students advance by taking a test of the listed kata. The more advance the student, the more difficult the kata. Because kata involves technique, coordination, quickness, and timing, it is a good indication of the ability of the student.
Kei Shin Kan Kata List:
- Taikyoku Shodan
- Taikyoku Nidan
- Taikyoku Sandan
- Heian Shodan
- Heian Nidan
- Heian Sandan
- Heian Yondan
- Heian Godan
- Matsu
- Tekki Shodan
- Tekki Nidan
- Tekki Sandan
- Bassai Dai
- Bassai Sho
- Seiunchin
- Seishan
- Wanshu
- Kanku Dai
- Kanku Sho
- Jion
- Chinto
- Jitte
- Chinte
- Juhachi
- Juroku
- Niseishi
- Nanajushi
- Koryu Gojushi
- Tensho
- Sanchin
- Sochin
- Hakatsura
Weapons
- 3 Bo katas, 1 Kama kata, 1 Sai kata:
- Tenryu no Kon
- Sueyoshi no Kon
- Tokumine no Kon
- Kanagawa no Nichogama
- Tawada no Sai