KATA
Technical Criteria
a) Stances
b) Techniques
c) Transitional movements
d) Timing
e) Correct breathing
f) Focus (KIME)
g) Consistence in the performance of the KIHON
of the style (Ryu-ha) in the kata.
Athletic Criteria
a) Strength
b) Balance
c) Speed
Kata is not a dance or theatrical performance. It must adhere to the traditional values and principles. It must be realistic in fighting terms and display concentration, power, and potential impact in its techniques. It must demonstrate strength, power, and speed — as well as grace, rhythm, and balance.
Fouls
a) Minor loss of balance.
b) Performing a movement in an incorrect or incomplete manner such as failure to fully execute a block or punching off target.
c) Asynchronous movement, such as delivering a technique before the body transition is completed, or in the case of team kata; failing to do a movement in unison.
d) Use of audible cues (from any other person, including other team members) or theatrics such as stamping the feet, slapping the chest, arms, or karategi, or inappropriate exhalation, must be considered very serious fouls by the Judges in their evaluation of the performance of the kata – on the same level as one would penalize a temporary loss of balance.
e) Belt coming loose to the extent that it is coming off the hips during the performance.
f) Time wasting, including prolonged marching, excessive bowing or prolonged pause before starting the performance.
WKF Shito-Ryu Kata List
Pinan Nidan
Pinan Sandan
Pinan Shodan
Pinan Yodan
Pindan Godan
Shisochin
Matsukaze
Gojushiho
Kururunfa
Wanshu
Unshu
Suparimpei
Rohai
Seisan
Hakucho
Bassai Dai
Jitte
Seienchin
Sanseiru
Jion
Sochin
Saifa
Jiin
Niseishi
Papuren
Sanchin
Chatanyara Kushanku
Chinto
Tensho
Chinte
Seipai
Pachu
Heiku
Tomari Bassai
Paiku
Matsumura Bassai
Aoyagi
Anan
Kosokun Dai
Jyuroku
Annanko
Kosokun Sho
Nipaipo
Heavyweight
Snap effect when performing
fast techniques
Maintains Shape
Enhance your kata
performance
''The center of your body should be the “shaft” of the whip. So, imagine a line going through your body from the top of your head to the floor. This shaft is what you twist, in order to crack the whip and generate the power that travels outward; from your center (shaft) to your fist, foot, knee, elbow or any other tool of impact.''
- Rika Usami
Former World Champion
