Kata are choreographed routines, similar to gymnastic floor exorcizes, but comprised of various martial arts techniques. Originally they were literally living books of techniques. Many of the elder Master's either could not write, or were reluctant to record their secret techniques in a book. For if they were to lay down their most sacred techniques in a written manuscript, then anyone who laid hands upon the book, would then be privy to their most guarded secrets. So, the kata, served as living books, to archive and pass on the techniques of any given system. These kata were traditionally passed on from Father to son, or within families or clans. Even within these "Living books" are hidden techniques. Katas were also designed as a form of both physical and mental exercise. Some of the advanced Kenpo Katas are long enough, that they test one's physical and one's mental endurance. They also teach flow, stability, transitions from one technique to the next, breathing and are even a form of moving meditation. Below are the required Kata for the Sam Pai Kenpo Gun-Fu System.