The Kihon Kata
Kihon means basics, or fundamentals. If kata is the heart of the Shotokan karate system, than the kihon is the blood and the foundation of the kata. These kata are designed to build strong basics and prepare students for the more advanced Heian kata series.

Kihon Kata Ichi (basic kata number 1) also called Taikyoku Shodan
Emphasis on basic low blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, proper basic breathing and application of kiai. Hip rotation, vibration.

Kihon Kata Ni (basic kata number 2)
Emphasis on basic face blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, proper basic breathing and application of kiai, hip rotation, vibration.

Kihon Kata San (basic kata number 3)
Emphasis on basic outer blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, proper basic breathing and application of kiai, hip rotation, vibration.

Kihon Kata Yon (basic kata number 4)
Emphasis on basic combination blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, proper basic breathing and application of kiai, hip rotation, vibration.

Kihon Kata Go (basic kata number 5)
Emphasis on basic face blocks/strikes, front snap kicks, timing of lunging punch after kick, kicks exploding from the center, proper kicking chamber and snap back, control of arms and upper body during kick, building strong and low front stances, proper basic breathing and application of kiai, hip rotation, vibration, and reconnection.