Kata

Sensei emphasises that kata is the heart of karate, and also the encyclopaedia of the Goju Ryu system. Analysis and application are as important to the learning of kata as the performance.  Kata training begins with the basics. Meibukan uses the eight Hookyu(Fukyu) Kata;
Jo Chu Ge, Chu Chu Ge, Ge Ge Ge, Shuto Shuto Shuto, Mai Geri Mai Geri Mai Geri, Mawashi Geri Mawashi Geri Mawashi Geri, Ko Jo Ge and Ko Jo Geri Ge
These kata are made up of simple combinations of movement that are found in higher kata, and once learned as a kata, are then practiced as two man training drills.

Along with the two kata that are considered to be the core of Goju Ryu, Tensho and Sanchin, the classic kata of Goju Ryu are also taught and practised. As with everything else in life and martial arts, the Kata follow a specific heirarchy, that is laid out in the image below. Starting with Saifa and moving clockwise around the circle until you learn the "Master" kata Suparinpei.

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Gekisai Ichi and Gekisai Ni (Attack/Smash 1, 2)
The Gekisai kata were develop around 1940 by Master Miyagi in order to help beginner students, as a filler between Sanchin Kata and Saifa. All of the techniques in the Gekisai Kata are performed with both hands. The Gekisai kata introduces the student to more complex moves with an easier form of execution.

Saifa (Smash and Tear)
Saifa kata is a low level intermediate kata that teaches balance in transition, through the use of low and long stances as well as a small jump landing on one foot with the other leg chambered for a kick.

Shisochin (Fighting Four Monks)
Shisochin or Fighting Four Monks concentrates on four directional fighting with emphasis placed on turning fast and reacting quickly to perceived attacks. It is widely accepted that Shisochin was Chojun Miyagi's favourite kata. Shisochin is an intermediate level kata that is performed almost exclusively with open hands.

Sanseiryu (36 techniques)
Sanseiryu is a kata of 36 different fighting exercises. This is a highly advanced form which relies on strong kicking ability and also koshi. Koshi is the ability to use your hips in order to add power to your techniques.

Seisan (13 techniques)
Seisan, which translates to mean 13 techniques, is believed to be the oldest of all Goju-Ryu kata. It is an advanced kata which relies heavily on kicking, stomping and strong punching. Whilst many versions of Seisan exist, Goju-Ryu adopted the Naha-te version.

Seienchin (Marching Far Quietly)
The origins of Seienchin seem to be in the system of Xing I. The direct translation for Seienchin is uncertain, but many Goju-Ryu practitioners refer to it as Marching Far Quietly. Seienchin is a unique kata because only hand techniques and stances are used. An advanced kata, Seienchin along with Seisan, is the other training Kaishu of Meibukan Goju-Ryu, and teaches the use of the other hand as reinforcement in a checking type role.

Seipai (18 techniques)
Seipai or 18 techniques demonstrates body twisting techniques and stand up grappling. When trained correctly, one of the major benefits of mastering Seipai is the combination of the hands and feet working together in harmony to properly execute the techniques. Higaonna Sensei brought this kata to Okinawa from China and adapted it to Naha-te.

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Sensei demonstrating Seipai Kata Application

Kururunfa (Holding Ground)
One of many translations for Kururunfa is Holding Ground. Kururunfa teaches balance and transition. This is one of the most difficult to learn and to master in the Meibukan Goju Ryu system.

Suparinpei  (108 techniques)
Suparinpei is considered to be the master kata of Meibukan Goju Ryu. Its Japanese Kanji reads 108 techniques. It incorporates many moves found in earlier kata (Seisan and Sanseiryu, just to name a few) but of a higher degree of difficulty. To practice Suparinpei correctly, one must acquire proper breath control, and a very precise timing. It is very long, strenuous, and takes a greater part of a lifetime to master.

Add to this five more kata that were taught by Dai Senseii as part of the Meibukan system,known as the Meibuken Kata. Meibuken translates as "Fist Of The Pure Minded Warrior". The five kata are;
Tenchi – Heaven and Earth
Seiryu – Blue Dragon
Byakko – White Tiger
Shujakku – Red Sparrow
and
Gembu – Black Turtle