Kata, or forms, are the primary formal training exercises through which
karate students learn the art of Shorin Ryu. Kata are prearranged sequences
of movements through which a karateka learns to properly use stances in
combination with defensive and offensive techniques. Repeated practice
will lead to the development of proper balance, form, power and speed.
It is through the kata that insight into self defense and kumite is gained.
As a student progresses through the kata they will be taught the bunkai,
or practical applications, of the kata to enhance their understanding
of the techniques taught within the kata. Simply put kata is the focal
point from which karate is truley taught. For without it the student will
not learn to bring the various techniques and stances together in a situation
which will require them to defend themselves.
The Saint Brigid Dojo teaches the kata as they were passed down on from Hanshi Takeshi Miyagi to Koyshi James Lilley. The kata which are taught consists of the following:
| Kihon | Basic (consists of shodan, nidan, sandan, yondan, godan) |
| Naihanchin | Fighting on home ground (consists of shodan, nidan, sandan) |
| Seisan | 13 hands |
| Pinan | Peaceful Mind (consists of shodan, nidan, sandan, yondan, godan) |
| Passai | To breach fortress or to thrust asunder (consists of Itotsu No Passai, Matusmura No Passai, and Kopassai Sho) |
| Kusanku | Chinese attache’s name (consists of sho, dai and Chatanyara No Kusanku) |
| Chinto | Fighting to the east or crane on rock |
| Gojushiho | The 54 steps |
| Jion | Temple sound |
| Unshu | Hand in clouds or Cloud hand |
| Tetsho | Iron Palm (Kata developed by Katsuya Miyahira) |
| Tensho | Change of grip or elegant hands (Goju Ryu kata) |
