Junzen Shotokan karate

Performed by Sensei Yoshinobu Ohta (JKA).

The first kata that beginners must learn.

It consists of the most basic techniques, however as your level and proficiency increases, you should be striving to execute this kata with higher level technical principles the same as for more advanced kata,  e.g. maximum kime for each move to snap those blocks and punches, hip rotation for power, timing and flow.

Performed by 5 year old Mahiro Yukukai (JKA).  Let this be an inspiration for you "older students"!

​There is a significant step up in difficulty for red belt syllabus involving gyaku (opposite) arm techniques which is also reflected in this kata.  The introduction of kicks also makes for additional challenge.

One of the shortest kata in the syllabus.  You must ensure a good low kiba-dachi stance.  Note the slightly offset alignment of the kiba-dachi with tetsui-uchi (hammer fist).  Make sure you initiate your mikazuki-geri (crescent kicks) by launching your leg forward towards your target, not swinging around from the side.

You may see a number of techniques performed differently in other styles, including the speed and timing of the first two moves.  Note that the uraken (back-fist) performed with yoko-geri-keage (side snap kick) is retracted prior to holding back out for enpi (elbow strike).  Also be aware of the leading arm being on the outside of the jodan juji-uke (upper x-block) prior to lowering into kakiwake-uke (wedge block).

This kata contains techniques and combinations of moves found in advanced level kata including a jump.  Continual practice will be required to ensure integrity of stances, balance and focus of techniques.

This kata is performed fast with the exception of a slow haishu-uke (back hand block).  Care must be taken to ensure each technique is fully completed before moving to the next.  You must rapidly turn your head to look in the right direction for each movement.  Take note of the correct technique for Nami ashi (inside leg blocks), frequently performed wrong.

Note the use of mikazuki-geri (crescent kicks) with fumikomi (stamping kicks).

ALL of the above kyu-grade kata learned up to Bassai Dai will be tested to earn your brown belt two white stripes (1st Kyu).