Heian Godan

平安五段

There are five Heian forms, containing a great variety of techniques and almost all of the basic stances. Having mastered these five forms, one can be confident that he is able to defend himself competently in most situations. The meaning of the name is to be taken in this context.

Video Credit: Hirokazu Kanazawa

Heian Godan kata uniquely contains almost all throws. Starting out with Funakoshi's Cripple Throw, followed by a shoulder lock, then later in the form a shoulder throw, elbow pin, and then ending with a leg sweep.

When learning this form, it's important to carefully learn all the correct defensive techniques, and not just the movements of the kata. This will greatly help in the practice of Jujutsu techniques, which for karateka should be commonly practiced.

Image Credit: Albrecht Pfluger