Kata forms the very foundation of karate practice. This also goes for Goju-Ryu, where kata plays a vital role as a foundational element. Kata offers a window into the past, revealing the wisdom of generations. From its origins to its significance in the present day, kata embodies the essence of martial arts philosophy. In this article, we’ll journey into the world of Goju-Ryu kata, uncovering its history, exploring its meaning, and discovering its enduring relevance in the martial arts community.
Heishugata and Kaishugata
Heishugata
Heishugata falls into the category that employs katas that utilize closed-hand techniques. These katas prioritize stability and strength in their execution. In Heishugata, you cultivate the fusion of body, breath, and mind.
Both Sanchin and Tensho kata fall under Heishugata. Although Heishugata translates to “closed-hand kata”, this label can be somewhat misleading. Rather, Heishugata refers to the continual state of tension sustained throughout the kata, signifying the contraction or “closing” of muscles. Therefore, in Sanchin and Tensho kata, all muscles maintain this perpetual tension, channeling power into the Tanden throughout the kata’s execution. Even amidst the relaxed movements of Tensho, tension persists in the pelvis (Tanden). Such kata fosters the development of physical strength, endurance, and mastery over breath.
Kaishugata
Kaishugata, on the other hand, pertains to “open-hand” techniques in Goju-Ryu. These katas emphasize fluidity, grace, and precision in their movements. In Kaishugata, you refine the execution of techniques.
All remaining kata fall into this classification, eg. Gekisai Dai Ichi, Gekisai Dai Ni, Saifa, Seiyunchin, Sepai, Shisochin, Sanseiru, Kururunfa, Seisan, and Suparinpei fall into this classification. Although termed “open-hand kata”, this description can be deceptive. In these kata, the body’s muscles remain “open” or relaxed, enabling swift and fluid movements. Muscles are engaged and power is directed to the Tanden solely during the execution of each technique.
Heishugata (Closed Hand)
Sanchin (三戦)
Sanchin, meaning “Three battles”, stands as the bedrock of Goju Ryu karate. Its name encapsulates its purpose: to overcome the weaknesses of body, mind, and will. Originating from the Fujian White Crane tradition in China, Sanchin kata is revered for its ability to cultivate stability, strength, and focus in practitioners.
Meaning: “Three battles”.
Purpose: Overcome weakness of body, mind, and will.
Training Focus: Stability, rooted posture, strength, and concentration of strength in the abdomen (hara).
Probably Origin: Chinese Fujian White Crane tradition.
Variants: Sanchin Dai (large Sanchin), Sanchin Sho (small Sanchin).
Creator: Attributed to Higaonna Kanryo.
Modification: Modified to the use of tense closed fist.
Traditional Practice: Originally performed with open hands.
Unique Features: Typically incorporated a heavy breathing method.
Importance: Considered the foundation of Goju Ryu.
Tensho (転掌)
Tensho, translating to “Turning/rotating palms”, is a counterpart to the formidable Sanchin kata in Goju Ryu. Crafted by Miyagi Chojun, Tensho embodies the interplay between hardness and softness, fluidity and stability. With its flowing circular hand movements, this kata offers practitioners a deeper understanding of martial harmony and balance.
Meaning: “Turning/rotating palms”.
Complementarity: Complements Sanchin, balancing tension with suppleness.
Creator: Miyagi Chojun.
Intention: Balance hard/soft aspects of Goju Ryu.
Influences: Kata form Go Kenki.
Similarity: Similarity with Wing Chun form “Siu Nim Tao” (little idea form).
Training Emphasis: Large flowing circular hand movements, the concentration of energy in the abdomen (hara).
Kaishugata (Open Hand)
Gekisai Dai-ichi (撃砕第一)
Gekisai Dai-ichi, or “First attack and smash”, emerges as a gateway into the world of kata practice for beginners in Goju Ryu. This kata lays a solid foundation for subsequent training, created by Miyagi Chojun in response to a call to promote karate among the youth.
Meaning: “First attack and smash”.
Purpose: Gentle introduction to kata practice.
Creator: Miyagi Chojun.
Origin: Developed in 1940 at the request of the Governor of Okinawa to promote karate among the youth.
Gekisai Dai-ni (撃砕第二)
Building upon the principles of its predecessor, Gekisai Dai-ni, or “Second attack and smash”, expands the repertoire of techniques for students of Goju Ryu. With its focus on neko-ashi-dachi and mawashi-uke, this kata prepares practitioners for more advanced training while reinforcing essential skills.
Meaning: “Second attack and smash”.
Purpose: Sequel to Gekisai Dai-ichi, building on its foundation.
Creator: Miyagi Chojun.
Introduction: Introduces neko-ashi-dachi and mawashi-uke.
Saifa (獅子法)
Saifa, translating to “Tear and destroy” or “Lion combat method”, exudes power and ferocity in its execution. Rooted in traditional Chinese martial arts and brought to Okinawa by Kanryo Higaonna, Saifa embodies the combative spirit of Goju Ryu.
Meaning: “Tear and destroy” or “Lion combat method”.
Origin: Chinese origin, modified and brought to Okinawa by Kanryo Higaonna.
Source Influence: Probably derived from the White Crane boxing style in China.
Technique: Emphasizes powerful striking techniques.
Final Technique: Includes the lethal choke-hold “hadaka-jime”.
Practice Variation: The traditional version differs from more recent versions for competition.
Seiyunchin (青鷹戦)
In the world of Goju Ryu, Seiyunchin, or “To control and pull in battle”, stands as a proof to adaptability and strategy. Derived from ancient Chinese kata, Seiyunchin teaches practitioners to move with fluidity and precision, seizing opportunities and turning the tide of combat.
Meaning: “To control and pull in battle”.
Origin: Derived from an ancient Chinese kata, possibly from the Hsing-I system.
Technique Focus: Grappling, control, and swift movements in shiko-dachi.
Source Influence: Possibly related to Hsing-I system of Chinese boxing.
Shisochin (蟋蟀戦)
Shisochin, known as “Four directional battle”, embodies agility and versatility in its movements. Passed down from Ryu Ryuko to Kanryo Higaonna, and later to Chojun Miyagi, this kata draws inspiration from White Crane methods.
Meaning: “Four directional battle”.
Presumably source: Taught to Kanryo Higaonna by Ryu Ryuko.
Technique Emphasis: Dynamic movements, multi-directional attacks, locking techniques.
Opening: Begins with swift nukite strikes similar to Uechi-Ryu version of Sanchin kata.
Sanseru (三十六)
Sanseru, meaning “Thirty-six hands”, holds a place of reverence in Goju Ryu as one of the oldest and most widespread kata. With its roots deeply intertwined with Chinese martial arts, Sanseru offers practitioners a comprehensive array of attacking and defensive techniques.
Meaning: “Thirty-six hands”.
Symbolism: Represents various aspects of human existence and justice.
Technique Focus: Simultaneous hand techniques.
Origin: Possibly derived from the Chinese Lion Boxing or White Crane methods.
Variations: Similarities found in Crane, Tiger, and Dog styles of Chinese Boxing.
Sepai (十八)
Sepai, signifying “Eighteen hands”, beckons practitioners to explore the intricacies of crane techniques and combat philosophy. With its focus on long-distance and close-quarter combat, Sepai challenges students to master movement in multiple directions and angles.
Meaning: “Eighteen hands”.
Symbolism: Represents balance and harmony.
Technique Focus: Crane techniques, agility, strategic movements.
Source: Possibly originated from Tiger or Tiger/Crane systems.
Kururunfa (臥龍法)
Kururunfa, (臥龍) can be translated as “lying dragon” or “crouching dragon”, invites practitioners to tap into the mythical power and agility of the “dragon”. With its rapid stance changes, grappling techniques, and heavy feeling of adhesion, Kururunfa embodies the essence of Goju Ryu’s dynamic combat style.
Meaning: “Holding onto the Burying Dragon,” with “burying dragon” suggesting hidden strength or potential.
Technique Emphasis: Rapid stance changes, close-quarter grappling, and joint techniques.
Source Influence: Probably derived from the Shaolin system.
Sesan (十三)
Sesan, translating to “Thirteen Hands”, stands as a proof to tradition and heritage in Goju Ryu. With its defensive and attacking techniques, Sesan symbolizes strength and prosperity.
Meaning: “Thirteen hands”.
Symbolism: Represents strength and prosperity.
Technique Focus: Defensive and offensive techniques.
Origin: Considered one of the oldest kata.
Defensive Techniques: Contains 8 defensive and 5 attacking techniques.
Suparunpei (一百零八)
Suparinpei, meaning “One hundred and eight hands”, represents infinity and the unity of human existence. As the longest and most comprehensive kata in Goju Ryu, Suparinpei demands dedication and persistence from practitioners.
Meaning: “One hundred and eight hands”.
Symbolism: Represents infinity and various aspects of human existence.
Technique Complexity: Longest and most comprehensive Goju Ryu kata.
Training Intensity: Requires significant effort to master hidden techniques, transitions, and changes of pace.
Variation: Different from Pechurin kata, though similarities exist.
Thanks for reading.
Gert
