Shotokan Karate Kata

"Kata is the essence of karate. The masters created kata by condensing all of karate’s techniques to a definite form. By practicing kata, you will develop your body movement, rhythm and timing. You will develop your ability to execute the individual techniques, and you will develop an ability to move naturally from one technique to another. Strict adherence to proper technique when doing kata will lead to natural and effective body movement in combat.

Once you understand the principles of kata movements, you will have a foundation for natural reactions. Kata also helps to cultivate spirit By creating imaginary opponents, you have to muster the spirit of defense; just as in a real life situation, you’ll have to generate spirit on demand. There is a look you’ll have in your eyes; a certain force with which you’ll make a powerful kiai, that will let you opponents know that you have tremendous power within. Practice kata throughout your lifetime; and you may never have to use these techniques in a real-life situation. "

- “Perfection of Character” by Master Teruyuki Okazaki

Shorin: Kata that aid in the development of speed.
Shorei: Kata that aid in the development of power.