Nineteen kata (« forms ») of karate - the art of self-defense without weapons - are presented here in complete detail. They are the ones selected by the great master and teacher, Gichin Funakoshi, to give comprehensive training in Karate-do, the way of karate.

Fully illustrated demonstrations by the translator cover not only every technique of the kata but also the fundamentals and applications : how to make a fist; the correct form of the open hand; preliminary training in blocking, striking; the seven stances; and sparring.

Karate-do Kyohan is a book that lives up to its title : it is in truth the master text for karate instruction at all levels and in all aspects of technique and character development.