Training Videos
Overview
Translation: “Peaceful & Safe #1”
Movements in Kata: 21
Kiai Points: #9 (Age Uke/Rising Block) & #17 (Oi Zuki/Step-In Punch)
Origin/Creator: Anko Itosu
Okinawan Name: Pinan Shodan
Heian Shodan is the first kata most Shotokan practitioners learn. Featuring only 5 different arm techniques, 2 stances, and no kicks, it is an ideal form for beginners to learn basic movement and stance. Each movement features the same-side hand and foot moving in unison. The kata is perfectly symmetrical except for its fourth move – the circular pull and strike. The backwards quarter-turns are deceptively simple and are challenging to perform at full speed with stability and correct posture.