The basis of instruction in karate, as in all martial arts, is the practice of 'kata.' These formal sequences of karate techniques simulate defending and attacking one or more opponents and has been the method by which studens have learned and practiced for hundreds of years. A student advances in the study of karate by mastering progressively more difficult kata.

Fully illustrated with step-by-step photographs of each kate, this book teaches the techniques of the shotokan school of kata. Complete with the historical background and development of each kata, the text and illlustrations explain each sequence and, more important, the practical application of each. The repetition of practicing the kata is what enables the karate student to react in what seems a reflex way to an aggressor's attack.

After reading and working with this book, the karate student of any level will have a greater understanding of the physical conditioning, correct mental and spiritual attitude behind the basic karate moves.

Vince Morris was a senior studentof Shiro Asano and has been many times British Team Champion of Shotokan Karate Institute. Also a kata medalist, he was a member of the winning international squad at European level in both kumite and kata. Morris established the English Karate Federation and is a former Chairman of the Martial Arts Commission.

Aidan Trimble has trained with many of the finest teachers in both 'traditional' and 'sport' karate. While he was in the Shotokan Karate Institute he was three times British Champion, three times Kata Champion, twice European Team Champion, British All students Individual Champion, twice England All Styles Kata champion, and the first World Individual Kumite Champion, winning the title in Tokyo.

Morris and Trimble head the Federation of Shotokan Karate and teach throughout Britain and Europe.

Contents

Kata
How to practice
Heian shodan
Heian nidan
Heian sandan
Heian yondan
Heian godan
Tekki shodan
Bassai-dai
Kanku-dai
Empi
Sochin
Jion
Hangetsu
Nijushiho