Kata

Kata, a primary training tool of karate.

Kata consists of a prearranged series of movements designed to provide the student with a tool for practicing the basic karate techniques and combinations of techniques through repetition. All karate styles and schools are founded on the use of basic martial arts techniques. These techniques include punches, strikes, blocks, kicks, and other movements depending on the school and style. Most Karate schools teach Kata and include repetitive practice of them on a regular basis.

Early karate teachers linked these basic techniques into prearranged series (kata) to support many teaching objectives including: development of combinations, simulation of combat against multiple imaginary opponents and/or another venue for practice of a particular technique or series of techniques.

It is thought that most karate kata originated in Okinawa, when in fact, many of the early kata were named after Chinese kung-fu experts who taught the Okinawans their art, formalising the Okinawan kata between 1600 and 1850.

At the time when karate kata was being developed in Okinawa, kata was the primary means of instruction. Prior to the 1700's, little formalization of kata existed and even the concept of a karate dojo was unknown. Around 1900, karate and these Okinawan kata migrated to Japan. Many of the basic katas from Okinawa were taught in Japan.