The Kata, Pinan Shodan, is the first in the set of five Pinan Kata. Pinan Shodan is considered to be a Kihon, or fundamental Kata, and is widely practiced throughout multiple styles of Karate. It also goes by the name of Heinan Nidan. The version that is presented in this course is the version practiced in Shito-Ryu Karate. However, regardless of your style, this course presents Bunkai applications that can be used by anyone. Techniques are presented from the Kata and Bunkai are explained in three to four levels. Level 1 is a striking response. Most striking responses are considered to be Omote Bunkai, meaning that what you see, is what you get. Level 2 is a throwing response. Throws can be as simple as a sweep / reap, or can be as complicated as you want; just remember that simple is usually better. A level 3 Bunkai is a locking response. Locks, or Jujutsu applications, may be beyond the needs of students looking for pure self-defense but are a good tool to have in the toolbox. The last level is level 4, or an escaping response. While every technique generally has a level 1-3 Bunkai, only certain techniques can be used as an escape to chokes and holds.

Please be safe while training and always exercise safety and common sense.