Karate: H-Form #1
The H Form #1 is a foundational kata. This kata is named “H” due to its pattern resembling the capital letter 'H' when performed, involving a series of blocks and punches executed in a specific sequence.
Outline of H Form #1 Steps:
1. Bow In:
- Begin in the attention stance (Heisoku-dachi), perform a formal bow (Rei).
2. Attention Stance:
- Transition to the ready stance (Hachiji-dachi), standing with feet shoulder-width apart and arms relaxed at your sides.
3. Look Left:
- Turn your head to the left, preparing for the upcoming movements.
4. 90° Left Down Block:
- Pivot to the left into a front stance (Zenkutsu-dachi) and execute a left downward block (Gedan-barai).
5. Lunge Punch:
- Perform a lunge punch (Oi-zuki) with the right hand, stepping forward into the punch.
6. 180° Right Down Block:
- Pivot 180 degrees to the right into a front stance, executing a right downward block.
7. Lunge Punch:
- Perform a lunge punch with the left hand, stepping forward into the punch.
8. 90° Left Down Block:
- Pivot 90 degrees to the left into a front stance, executing a left downward block.
9. 3x Lunge Punches:
- Perform three consecutive lunge punches with alternating hands, stepping forward each time.
10. 270° Left Down Block:
- Pivot 270 degrees to the left into a front stance, executing a left downward block.
11. Lunge Punch:
- Perform a lunge punch with the right hand, stepping forward into the punch.
12. 180° Right Down Block:
- Pivot 180 degrees to the right into a front stance, executing a right downward block.
13. Lunge Punch:
- Perform a lunge punch with the left hand, stepping forward into the punch.
14. 90° Left Down Block:
- Pivot 90 degrees to the left into a front stance, executing a left downward block.
15. 3x Lunge Punches:
- Perform three consecutive lunge punches with alternating hands, stepping forward each time.
16. 270° Left Down Block:
- Pivot 270 degrees to the left into a front stance, executing a left downward block.
17. Lunge Punch:
- Perform a lunge punch with the right hand, stepping forward into the punch.
18. 180° Right Down Block:
- Pivot 180 degrees to the right into a front stance, executing a right downward block.
19. Lunge Punch:
- Perform a lunge punch with the left hand, stepping forward into the punch.
20. Both Hands Out:
- Extend both hands forward, palms facing out, as if pushing an opponent away.
21. 90° Left Arms Crossed to Attention Stance:
- Pivot 90 degrees to the left, crossing your arms in front of your chest, then return to the attention stance.
22. Bow Out:
- Perform a formal bow, concluding the kata.
Visual Demonstration:
For a comprehensive visual guide, you can refer to the following video tutorial: