Cambridge Karate Club

English - Unusual Hand

This kata is characterised by the use of large circular movements and unusual hand techniques, which make it feel different from other Shotokan katas. According to Sensei Kanazawa, it is believed to be related to Gankaku. While initially this idea seems odd, there are common techniques: Gankaku also utilises some circular arm movements such as the double separating block; and Chinte uses crane stance.

The shifts from fudo-dachi to zenkutsu-dachi at the beginning and end of this kata should be used to generate lots of power from the hips. The three jumps at the end seem to cause some controversy as to whether they actually have an application, or are merely there to return to the starting position!

Video links

Videos from YouTube.

Sensei Enoeda

Sensei Naito

Kata and bunkai.