The shortest kata in the Heian series, Heian Sandan has 20 counts, with almost half of the movements performed in kiba-dachi (horse stance). Tai sabaki, or « body shifting, » is of utmost importance in H3. The student must learn how to rotate the entire body to gain momentum, as well as how to slide the feet, yori-ashi. Empi (elbow) techniques are also first learned in this kata. Timing skills become prominent as H3 is the first kata that contains a slow movement.
Esprit Bubishi et Karate-Do 