Kata in judo means "form" - it is a predefined set of techniques that are practiced in pairs according to a precise scenario. They serve to deepen the understanding of judo principles such as balance - deflection (kuzushi), timing - onset (tsukuri), efficiency of movement and the relationship between attack and defense. 

There are several types of kata, each focusing on a different aspect of judo:

• Nage-no-kata - forms of throws
• Katame-no-kata - forms of holding, choking and wrestling
• Kime-no-kata - forms of decisiveness, including defense against weapons
• Ju-no-kata - forms of subtlety
• Goshin-jutsu - self-defence techniques
• Koshiki-no-kata - historical techniques in armour
• Itsutsu-no-kata - philosophical kata without specific techniques

Kata are an important part of the examinations for higher technical levels (KYU/DAN).