Gekisai Dai Ichi (Introduction To Destroy Number 1)

This kata was created by Miyagi Sensei (See Banner above)in 1940 out of his desire to popularise Goju Ryu within the high school system in Okinawa. This kata actually finishes with a forward step that symbolises the moving forward of the counrty during the war in Japan at the time, the kata involves 'attack' and 'smash' techniques to pulverise the opponent.

Gekisai Dai Ni (Introduction To Destroy Number 2)

This Kata was created at the same time as Gekasai Dai Ichi. Both of these Kata were created by Sensei Chojun Miyagi as a gentler introduction to Kata, it also introduces open hand techniques and brings the Neko Ashi Dachi movements that is very important in many advances Goju ryu Katas.

Saifa (To Destroy By Pounding/Pulverising)

To tear and destroy. Also known as 'Monkey Kata' and 'To Move Like The Wind'.Traditional kata of chinese origin brought to Okinawa by Kanryo Higaonna. This kata is thought to have been derived from white crane boxing style in China. Saifa makes use of many escape techniques and body shifting skills.

Seiyunchin (To Control and Pull In Battle)

Derivative of a very old chinese kata probably originally from the Hsing-I system. Noted in this Kata is that it involves no kicking techniques, Seiyunchin is also known as the 'Tiger Kata'.

Shisoshin (Four Directional Battle)

Also meaning to 'Destroy In Four Directions', Taught to Kanryo Higaonna by Ryuryu Ko. One of Chojun Miyagi's favourite kata in his later years. Employs joint manipulation and locking techniques.

Sanseru (36 Techniques )

Also '36 Hands or Movements' thirty six representing 6x6, the first six being eye, ear, nose, tongue, body and spirit and the second six, colour, voice, smell, taste, touch and justice.
T his Kata makes use of Joint attacks and defence against kicking attacks

Sepai (18 Stances)

(eighteen hands). Based upon crane techniques. Eighteen being 6x3 (colour, voice, smell, taste, touch and justice as in sanseru) and 3 representing good, bad and peace. This kata uses many movements that require co-ordination between hips and hands.

Kururunfa (Holding on Long and Striking Suddenly)

'Praying Mantis' this Kata uses many Niko Ashi movements and also means (to destroy with ancient mantis techniques). Taught to Kanryo Higaonna by Ryoryu Ko from China. Its origins are unknown.

Sesan (13 Hands or Movements)

(thirteen hands). The basic form of this kata contains 8 defensive and 5 attacking techniques. Thirteen is also a number representing good luck and prosperity in chinese numerology. Sesan is thought to be one of the oldest kata. It symbolises the difference between Go (Hard) and Ju (Soft)

Suparinpei (108 Positions)

(108 hands). 6x6x3, combining the elements represented in the meanings of sanseru and sepai. 108 also has special significance in buddhist beliefs from where the kata originated. The most advanced Kat in Goju Ryu also known as (Master Kata).

Sanchin (3 Battles)

The fundamental kata of Goju Ryu. The form generally practised is a variation of Kanryo Higaonna's kata that Chojun Miyagi chose to balance movements. The Kata symbolises the conflict between mind, body and spirit.

Tensho (Rotating Palms)

(Turning or Flowing Hands). Created by Chojun Miyagi, and is derived from a softer chinese form of sanchin.