Kata - A kata is a series of prearranged movements or techniques.

The five elements of kata:

Shin: mental control
Ki: mental energy
Ryoku: techniques which are focused and supported troughout the body
Continuation
Proper rhythm of the movements

In Shotokan, there are 25 kata altogether, including 10 basic kata that must be known by students achieving shodan (first black belt). Each rank has its own kata. In order to get promoted to the next rank, being able to perform the kata is very important.

Kata is believed to be the core of karate. In ancient times, people learnt karate through mastering kata. By learning kata, you get to learn variety of techniques that are seldom done in basic. In addition, kata helps students develop mental control, good posture and proper breathing.