Shotokan Kata

The Ten Elements of Kata

The following ten elements of kata as taught by Hirokazu Kanazawa (10th Dan), must be well practiced and understood in order to obtain maximum benefit.

• Yoi No Kisin (The spirit of getting ready).

  The concentration of will and mind against the opponent as a preliminary to the movements of the Kata.

• Inyo (The active and passive).

  Always keeping in mind both attack and defence.

• Chikara No Kyojaku (The manner of using strength)

  The degree of power used for each movement and position in Kata.

• Waza No Kankyu (The speed of movement)

  The speed used for each movement and position in Kata.

• Tai No Shinshuku (The degree of expansion or contraction).

  The degree of expansion or contraction of the body in each movement and position in Kata.

• Kokyu (Breathing).

  Breath control related to the posture and movement in Kata.

• Kiai (Shouting).

  Shouting at set points in Kata to demonstrate the martial spirit.

• Keitai No Hoji (Correct positioning).

  Correct positioning in movement and stance.

• Zanshin (Remaining on guard).

  Remaining on guard at the completion of the Kata (i.e. back to 'Yoi') until told to relax.

• Tyakugan (The aiming points).

  In Kata, one must keep the purpose of the movement in mind.