What is a "Kata"?

The kata is the essence of karate and contains all of the teachings and knowledge of karate in a set of pre arranged movements. Kata have been used to pass down the knowledge of karate from Sensei to student as a living textbook.




Heishugata

Heishugata is "kata with closed hands" also known as "fundamental kata". This kata teaches fundamentals of movement and principles

Kihon (Basics or Fundamentals)

Kihon means "Basics" or "Fundamentals"

Kihon is the practicing of basic techniques or the fundamentals of karate. This includes the kicks. punches, blocks, movements, stances and other physical techniques. It also refers to creating the correct spirit and attitude within the karateka student.

Kihon is often repeated in every class with extended periods of basic drills. This type of practice is used to ingrain the techniques into the 'muscle memory' of the karateka. In the absence of thought or pre-meditated action; instinct or ingrained actions will take over. The constant practice of basic drills allows the kihon movements to occur in the sub conscious, without conscious thought.