Annanko - After a w/e Gasshuku last week, I learned so many reasons why Sanchin is important but Annanko has applications of Sanchin in it.

Plenty of open-hand techniques, empi-uchi, take-down w/ F/U, dynamic & subtle.

I was wondering if anyone would choose any of the "Fighting" kata. Annanku or Kusanku. I should have known it would be Hedkikr

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I would choose Sanchin for chinkuchi development and Naihanchi for fighting applications. Wansu and Siesan would be next on my list. For those who don't know, chinkuchi literally means bone, sinew, and energy. Chinkuchi is basicaly total controll of your technique and center of gravity, focus, directing energy to different parts of your body and propper breathing.These are all things that I believe Sanchin teaches. I also believe that this is why so many Okinawan styles stress Sanchin so much. Isshin Ryu is a combination of Goju Ryu and Shorin Ryu. They way that I practice Isshin Ryu is to use the Goju Ryu Kata for chinkuchi development and the Shorin Ryu kata for fighting. I must say though If I could pick only one it would be Sanchin. I would use my basics for fighting.

I like Saifa (Smash! Tear!).

Naihanchi hands down. Although we practice all three as one kata.

Kempoman

Only one... I would have to go with AKK's Short Form Three. It contains the most complete coverage of the styles principles. The other forms in AKK, especiall Long 3, 4, 5, and six, might look better, but they favor the style of movement that is present in brown/black belt techniques, whereas Short three is the intermediary that covers the entire range of movement in AKK.

Good choice KiDoHae. I agree completely.

KANKU DAI i think

The Channan.
All 5 Heians in one.

Suparinpei.
It's the only Goju kata that I have not been taught.