In Shotokan, kata is not considered to be a performance or demonstration, but is for an individual karateka to practice full techniques, with every technique a potentially killing blow, while paying particular attention to form and timing.

Each kata has its own specific emphasis on fast andor slow, controlled, powerful movements.

This kiai, or spirit cry as it is also known, demonstrates that the karateka has committed their body, mind, and spirit to apply all of their available energy to that specific technique.

The kata consists of kicks, punches, sweeps, strikes, blocks, and throws.

Body movement in various kata includes stepping, twisting, turning, dropping to the ground, and jumping.

Shotokan Karate is comprised of 26 katas, each with their own emphasis on fast and slow or controlled and powerfull movements.

Virtually all of the katas taught today in the Shotokan system have two kiai points.

The kiai or spirit cry as it is sometimes referred to, occurs only at certain pre-determined moments in each kata.

It is precisely at these pre-determined moments that the karate-ka is required to demonstrate a total commitment of body, mind, and spirit, and to channel all of their available energy and apply it appropriately to the required technique.

The kiai is a common thread that runs through all major styles of karate.

It is important for every student to remember that as they rise up through the various kyu levels and Dan ranks, the continued regular practice of all of the previous katas that they have been taught is vital to their future progress.

All 26 Shotokan Karate Katas