Kihon Kata – Probably the most important Shotokan Karate Kata

The correct practice of Kihon kata is vital for shotokan karate practitioners. This karate kata alone consists of two different karate moves, oizuki (step strike) and gedanbarai (downward lock). But within these two ‘simple’ karate techniques, lie the basic fundamentals of shotokan karate.

Let us see why kihon kata is so important to the shotokan karate dojo.

1. Shomen (Square)
2. Hanmi (sideways)
3. Hikite (Pulling Hand)
4. Breath
5. Kime (Focus)
6. Same height
7. Seichusen (center line)
8. Embusen (Performance Line)
9. Speed
10. Zenktsu dachi (Front Stance)
11. Oizuki (Step Hit)
12. Gedanbarai (downward block)

We will briefly cover these important elements.

The first move in kihon kata is gedanbarai (downward lock), executing this technique the body moves from a square stance (shomen) to a hanmi (sideways) stance upon completion.

The Hittite arm (pulling hand) is used forcefully in every movement. Work hard to develop a strong Hittite.

Very basic breathing is practiced when first learning karate, so simply inhale as you prepare for each move and exhale as you finish, keeping your chest still and using your stomach. The stomach should push out when you inhale and contract when you exhale.

There are many interpretations of kime but for the beginner focusing on the end of a karate technique should be a priority and when I say focus I mean mind and body. Try to move relaxed, and then just as the technique lands, on the physical side, tighten your muscles, then immediately relax, still holding the form.

Throughout the kihon kata, the same height should be maintained, try not to move up and down as you go, or as you twist and turn.

You must be aware of your seichusan (center line) and embusen (line of kata execution) at all times. The kihon kata embusen is shaped like the letter I.

Once kata techniques are understood, speed must be applied, practicing the explosive start of each movement, not a slow start, and then increasing speed as the movement progresses.

Zenkutsu dachi (front stance) is the basic stance, so getting it right is essential. Try not to be too long, short, tall or narrow. To begin with, the stance should be at hip height, so from shizentai (natural stance), step forward with your left leg and bend your left knee so you can’t see your left toes, bring your left knee up. left leg approximately above the center of the left leg. the left foot The front stance is much more complicated than this, but this is a good starting point.

Oizuki and gedan barai are two great karate moves that will allow you to practice all of the above points, they are basic but contain all the basic fundamentals needed for good strong karate practice.