Kata are the forms that students learn as they progress through the belt ranks. Each kata is a specific series of techniques performed by the student against imaginary opponents.

         Every kata teaches new techniques and dachi for the karateka to add to their fighting skills in addition to stressing particular strategic concepts. For example, some kata stress Basics, some include kicks while others don’t, some teach grabs and throws, some include 180° or 360° turns, some stress muscular tension and breathing, etc. Students begin learning weapons kata at the green belt level.

         Great emphasis is placed on the Isshinryu kata in our schools. Students must show skill and understanding of the kata if they are to advance through the ranks. By the time a student has learned all the kata required to be promoted to the next belt color, they have usually had sufficient time to learn the history, self-defense, Basics, and other general skills involved in karate. They are then ready to be checked for a promotion to the next belt color.

 KATA   

OPPONENTS

    In addition to the Isshinryu kata above, Sensei Shank teaches several additional forms that are not part of the required curriculum a student must learn for promotion. Some of these are Isshinryu forms, but the rest come from other martial arts. These may be learned at various belt ranks for fun, and to add to a student's fighting theory and experience.

 KATA

OPPONENTS

 STYLE

Isshinryu

Isshinryu

Isshinryu

Aikido

Aikido

Aikido

Aikido

Jujitsu