Nunchaku Kata Fundamentals

Nunchaku katas (forms) are structured sequences of movements that combine strikes, blocks, spins, and stances. They’re designed to develop technique, precision, coordination, and flow with the nunchaku.

While traditional nunchaku katas may vary by martial-arts style or school, this blog post provides some ideas for “freestyle” katas and drills you can practice.

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By tashatuvango

Beginner Nunchaku Kata

Focus: Foundational strikes, blocks, and transitions.

   •      Movements:

           1.         Opening bow.

           2.         Forward strikes (horizontal and vertical).

           3.         Side-to-side strikes (hip-to-hip flow).

           4.         Basic upward and downward blocks.

           5.         Figure-8 spinning (horizontal or vertical).

           6.         Closing bow.

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By natatravel

Intermediate Nunchaku Kata

Focus: Combining spins and strikes into a fluid sequence.

   •      Movements:

           1.         Opening bow.

           2.         Figure-8 strikes (forehand and backhand).

           3.         Horizontal strikes transitioning into diagonal strikes.

           4.         Spinning strikes with a forward stance.

           5.         Shoulder catch with reverse strike.

           6.         Closing bow.

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By boygostockphoto

Advanced Nunchaku Kata

Focus: Incorporating defense, footwork, and advanced spins.

   •      Movements:

           1.         Opening bow.

           2.         Spinning blocks (circular upward and downward).

           3.         Diagonal and circular strikes while advancing and retreating.

           4.         Behind-the-back or under-the-leg spins.

           5.         Rapid figure-8 with a shoulder catch.

           6.         Combination of a high block, low block, and counterstrike.

           7.         Closing bow.

Create Your Own Katas

You can also create your own katas by combining basic moves, such as:

   •      Strikes: Forehand, backhand, diagonal, and horizontal.

   •      Blocks: High, low, and circular deflections.

   •      Spins: Figure-8, wrist rolls, and shoulder catches.

   •      Footwork: Include forward, backward, and lateral movements for dynamic flow.

Practice Tips

   •      Start with slow, controlled movements to ensure accuracy and safety.

   •      Gradually increase speed and fluidity as you gain confidence.

   •      Always practice in a safe environment with enough space.

   •      Use foam nunchaku if you’re a beginner to avoid injury.

GMAU Nunchaku Program Overview

Global Martial Arts Nunchaku Course

Want to learn Nunchaku, including complete practice katas? Is so, check out the GMAU Nunchaku course.

Check out the Yellow Chevron Blitz Kata in this is a follow along video.

Set up a FREE Beginner’s Account and start training TODAY!

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