Kihon kata consists of only one karate stance, zenkutsu dach (front stance) and two basic karate moves, oizuki (stepping punch) and gedanbarai (downward block), this kata is usually the first karate kata practiced in shotokan karate dojo.

1. Kihon Kata -
Probably the Most Important Shotokan Karate Kata
Correct practice of Kihon kata is vital to shotokan karate practitioners. This karate kata only
consists of two different karate moves, oizuki (stepping punch) and gedanbarai (downward block).
But within these two 'simple' karate techniques, lay the basic fundamentals of shotokan karate.
Let us look at why kihon kata is so important to the shotokan karate dojo.
1. Shomen (Square)
2. Hanmi (Side facing)
3. Hikite (Pulling hand)
4. Breathing
5. Kime (Focus)
6. Same Height
7. Seichusen (Centre line)
8. Embusen (Performance Line)
9. Speed
10. Zenktsu dachi (Front stance)
11. Oizuki (Stepping punch)
12. Gedanbarai (Downward block)
Lets just briefly cover these important elements.
The first move in kihon kata is gedanbarai (downward
block), when executing this technique, the body goes
from a square (shomen) position, to a hanmi (side
facing) position upon completion.
The hikite arm (pulling hand) is used strongly on every
move. Work hard on developing a strong hikite.
Very basic breathing is practiced when first learning
karate, so simply breathe in on the preparation of each
move and out on completion, keeping the chest still and
using the stomach. The stomach should push out when
you breathe in and pull in when you breathe out.
Copyright KarateClassesOnline.com

2. There are many interpretations of kime, but for the beginner, focusing at the end of a karate
technique should be a priority and when I say focus, I mean mind and body. Try to move relaxed
then just as the technique lands, on the physical side, tighten the muscles, then relax immediately,
still keeping form.
All through kihon kata, the same height should be maintained, try not to move up and down as you
travel forward, or whilst turning and spinning.
You should be aware of your seichusan (centre line) and embusen (kata performance line) at all
times. The embusen of kihon kata forms the shape of the letter I.
Once the kata techniques are understood, speed should be applied, the explosive start of each move
should be practiced, not a slow start, then picking up speed as the move progresses.
Zenkutsu dachi (front stance), is the foundation stance, so getting this right is essential. Try not to
be to long, to short, to high, or to narrow. To begin with, the stance should be hip width, so from
shizentai (natural stance), step forward with the left leg and bend the left knee so you cannot see the
toes of the left foot, have the left knee roughly above the centre of the left foot. Front stance is a lot
more involved than this, but this is a good starting point.
Oizuki and gedan barai are two great karate moves, that will enable you to practice all the above
points, they are basic but contain all the basic fundamentals needed for good strong karate practice.
Great care should be taken when practicing karate moves, if practiced incorrectly they may cause
injury, so please find a qualified instructor and sign up for their karate classes.
Linden has been training and teaching karate for over 30 years and loves to share his knowledge
and experiences in the martial arts. Access this free 7 lesson online karate course for beginners.
Copyright KarateClassesOnline.com