Kata, the structured forms in Wado-Ryu Karate, serve as the foundation for developing both physical technique and mental discipline. Each kata is a meticulously crafted sequence of movements that embodies the principles, strategies, and spirit of Wado-Ryu. These forms teach practitioners to combine strikes, blocks, stances, and footwork into a flowing, dynamic series of techniques, simulating combat against multiple opponents.



Pinan Sandan (Japanese: ピナン三段) is the third kata in the Pinan series of Wado-Ryu Karate, and it introduces more complex techniques, including dynamic changes in direction and a greater focus on balance and coordination. Developed by Master Hironori Otsuka, Pinan Sandan emphasizes the use of both linear and circular movements, combining effective blocking techniques with counterattacks. The kata also introduces the practitioner to techniques involving simultaneous block-and-strike maneuvers, encouraging fluidity in transitions between offense and defense. Mastery of Pinan Sandan helps students refine their footwork, body alignment, and timing, making it a critical stage in the progression toward more advanced katas in Wado-Ryu Karate.

The Pinan Sandan is a 15-movement kata that combines the basic techniques of the Pinan series with the more advanced techniques of the Kushanku series. It is designed to teach students the fundamental principles of Wado-Ryu and its evolution.

The Pinan series, which includes the Pinan Nidan, Pinan Shodan, Pinan Sandan, Pinan Yodan, and Pinan Godan, is the most basic form of Wado-Ryu kata. These movements are designed to teach students the basic principles of Wado-Ryu and to help them develop their physical strength, agility, and endurance.

Introduction:
Pinan Sandan is an essential kata in Wado-Ryu Karate that builds upon foundational movements, emphasizing advanced stances, precise body shifts (taisabaki), and fluid transitions between offense and defense.

Step 1: Yoi (Ready Stance)
Start in Masuba Dachi (attention stance).
Rei (bow), then open your stance into Hachiji Dachi (ready stance).

Step 2: First Move - Left Gedan Uke (Low Block)
Turn 90 degrees to your left into Mahamni Neko Ashi Dachi (side-facing cat stance).
Perform a Left Gedan Uke (low block).

Step 3: Step Forward - Right Junzuki (Lunge Punch)
Step forward into Right Junzuki Dachi (right front stance).
Execute a Right Junzuki (lunge punch).

Step 4: Turn 180 Degrees and Left Gedan Uke
Pull your front hand across your chest and step back into Shizentai (natural stance).
Turn 180 degrees to your right into Left Junzuki Dachi.
Perform a Left Gedan Uke (low block).

Step 5: Double Block and Strike Sequence
Pull your right foot back into Neko Ashi Dachi.
Perform a Right Gedan Barai (low block) and Left Agi Uke (rising block).
Step forward into Right Junzuki Dachi and execute a Right Junzuki.

Step 6: Turn Left and Double High Blocks
Turn 90 degrees to your left into Left Junzuki Dachi.
Perform two high blocks (Jodan Uke) consecutively.

Step 7: Advance with Defensive Stances
Step forward into Right Shiko Dachi (four-point stance).
Perform a Right Gedan Barai followed by a Left Tetsui Uke (hammer fist block).
Step into Left Shiko Dachi and perform a Left Gedan Barai.

Step 8: 45-Degree Turn - Double Gedan Uke
Pivot 45 degrees to your left into Mahamni Neko Ashi Dachi.
Perform a double Gedan Uke (low block) with both arms.

Step 9: Step Forward - Right Nukite
Step forward into Right Shiko Dachi.
Execute a Right Yohon Nukite (spear hand) with defensive positioning.

Step 10: Final Defensive and Offensive Sequence
Pivot to face forward into Right Junzuki Dachi.
Perform a Right Gedan Uke, followed by a Left Agi Uke.
Step forward into Left Junzuki Dachi and execute a Left Junzuki punch.

Step 11: Kiai and Finish with Nukite
Step forward into Right Shiko Dachi, extend a Right Yohon Nukite (spear hand).
Shout "Kiai!" as you complete the strike.

Final Step: Return to Ready Stance and Bow
Pull the right foot back into Hachiji Dachi (ready stance).
Rei (bow) to conclude the kata.