Naihanchi (ナイハンチ) performed in Naihanchi-Dachi It translates to ‘Internal Divided Conflict‘ or “Inner Tension Stance”. The form makes use of in-fighting techniques. In Naihanchi Shodan is the first San Kyu (Brown Belt Kata). There are three modern kata derived from this (Shodan, Nidan and Sandan). Some researchers believe Nidan and Sandan were created by Master Anko Itosu, but others believe that it was originally one kata broken into three separate parts (probably due to constraints of space).
The side to side movements in a low stance build up the necessary balance and strength for fast footwork and body shifting. The kata are intricate strategies of attacking and defensive movement, done in the Naihanchi Dachi, for the purpose of conditioning the legs to develop explosive power.
