Forms and Other Terms
Kata
Description
Form / Pre-arranged practice. Kata refers to a fixed sequence of techniques practiced in a precise, pre-arranged pattern. Both partners know the choreography in advance, allowing focused study of correct technique, timing, and movement. An example is Kime-no-kata (the form of decision/power), a traditional Judo kata demonstrating self-defence techniques. Note: the word "kata" in Kime-no-kata means "form/pattern", while the "kata" in Kata gatame means "shoulder" — they are written with different kanji characters but sound the same in Japanese.
Name meaning
- kata: form/pattern/shoulder