Kihon kata or Taikyoku Shodan(the original name), is the first kata practiced by many shotokan groups.
The founder of Shotokan karate, Master Gichin Funakoshi (pictured), developed six taikyoku kata. The six taikyoku kata are,
1. Taikyoku Shodan
2. Taikyoku Nidan
3. Taikyoku Sandan
4. Taikyoku Yondan
5. Taikyoku Godan
6. Taikyoku Rokudan
Some shotokan groups still practice these six basic kata, but the majority of shotokan dojo do not, and have taikyoku shodan (kihon kata), or heian shodan as their first kata.
Kata literally translates as form. Kata is a Japanese word describing set patterns of movements practiced alone or with a partner. Master Gichin Funakoshi's 20 precepts.
Kihon - Literally translated as "foundation" or "beginning"
Taikyoku - Literally translated as "first course" or "basic ultimate"
PS Many new karateka ask, how often should I train? Well i believe the question should be, what sort of person am I and do I have the right attitude for karate practice?