Taikyoku Jodan Ichi (regular speed)

The Taikyoku katas, from Taikyoku Jodan to Taikyoku Mawashi Uke Ni, were created by Gogen Yamaguchi.

Beginners first practise Taikyoku Kata before learning Gekisai Dai-Ichi and Gekisai Dai-Ni. The Taikyoku and Gekisai kata are called “Fukyu kata” (Kata for propagation; kata designed to spread and popularize basic techniques).

Taikyoku Jodan is divided into two versions. In Taikyoku Jodan 1, both blocks and punches are performed in Sanchin Dachi, while punches are performed in Zenkutsu Dachi. All blocks are Jodan Uke, and all punches are Jodan Seiken Tsuki. All steps in the kata are performed quickly (stance, legs loaded first, then hand technique; it often looks at the same time).

There are 19 movements in Taikyoku Jodan, from the starting position, “Heiko Dachi Yoi,” to “Naore.” They all follow the basic “H” or “I” pattern and increase slightly in difficulty as more techniques are added.