Heian Nidan

Heian Nidan translates as, "Peaceful mind, second level." and is the second of the series of five Heian kata. It focuses on back stances and is the first kata to introduce the yoko geri (side snap kick). It represents wind. It is one of the most basic kata and is usually the second kata a karateka learns.
There is an emphasis on basic low blocks/strikes and stepping punch, moving through the center and building strong and low front stances, hammer fist technique and face blocks/strikes, including transitionally timed blocks and strikes, back stance knife hand block/strike, proper basic breathing and application of kiai. Hip rotation, vibration, shifting/thrusting, reconnection.