25 Shoto-Kan Kata

A kata is a series of defensive and offensive moves against imaginary attacks from different directions. Also, a kata includes many moves for physical exercise and for connection to subsequent moves rather than for actual application.

Why practice Kata?

Because of the tension of fighting, it is difficult to maintain tranquility in order to examine and understand the details of techniques during sparring. Therefore, Kata are made for studying the details of the external movements.

Why this Kata book?

1. All movements are illustrated by drawing insted of photographs. Therefore, you can understand the movements more clearly.

2. The drawings employ a three dimensional perspective and use compass points for easy orientation.

3. To complete the learning of each Kata, the rhythm and timing of movements are clearly described.

4. For clear understanding, step by step explanations accompany each diagram.

Note: Instructions provided in English, Spanish and Japanese.

Unlike other kata books which detail the moves via photographs, the line drawings allow the student to see how to transition from one move to the next. And the use of compass points makes it easy to keep track of where you are supposed to be going.

This is a good book for beginner and advanced students as it includes the 25 traditional shotokan kata.

25 Shotokan Kata is the only book on the market that is solely concerned with the teaching of kata. While it doesn't make for exciting pictures (with cartoon-style Kiai's overlayed) it does focus on what students need to learn Kata. In fact since using this book I don't have to teach my students the moves to the kata anymore, rather, I can take more time looking at correction and application.

For the Karate student that needs to learn the kata's this book is essential.