Saifa砕破

Saifa (砕破, "Smash and Tear") is the first of the kaishu (open-hand) kata, the classical forms inherited from Kanryo Higashionna's Chinese training. It is an explosive, attacking kata built around circular sweeping blocks, snapping back-fist strikes (uraken), and a turning elbow attack. Saifa moves on a linear embusen with dynamic lateral extensions.

The "smash and tear" theme reflects techniques designed to break an opponent's grip or guard — grappling releases, pulling counters and destructive circular movements are central to its bunkai. Saifa introduces the student to the Goju-ryu classical repertoire and the characteristic use of both fist and open hand in rapid succession.