Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate, originally included only 15 kata in his syllabus, despite his extensive knowledge of many forms. His approach emphasized simplicity and mastery over a select set of fundamental techniques. He also introduced the Taikyoku kata as a foundational stepping stone for beginners.
The Shotokan Karate-Do International Association (SKDIA) follows a similar philosophy, requiring only 16 mandatory kata for grading, closely aligning with Funakoshi’s original system. Additional kata are available for practice but are not compulsory for advancement. This structure prioritizes deep understanding over sheer quantity, reinforcing the principle that true mastery comes from embodying the core principles of each kata.
In today’s martial arts landscape, where many styles emphasize flashy techniques, Funakoshi’s approach remains a timeless reminder of the importance of focus, depth, and simplicity in Shotokan Karate.
That’s why we’re excited to announce a special kata series conducted by our Chief Instructor, Aneel Dowlath Sensei. This weekly series held at our senior Saturday classes for our senior students (Purple – Black Belt) will be a deep-dive into each of the main Shotokan kata.
The series is set to begin on 12 April 2025.
