初心塾和道會
Shoshinjyuku Wadokai
Grading Syllabus Overview


Wado Kai Karate is broken down into units known as Kyu grades. Each unit contains a cross section of practice, and more skill is needed as one progresses through to black belt. For children under 16, the Kyu grades are further divided into Mon grade.


The grading syllabus is split into a number of categories; students are expected to be proficient in each category in order to be awarded the grade. You must know the technical requirements for your grading before you receive an invitation to challenge for the next rank.


Students must have a current membership to train and grade. Application forms are given to you by your Sensei 2 weeks before grading.


Kihon Waza (Basic Techniques)

The basic techniques for each grade must be performed several times to a count during the grading.


Renkei Waza (Combination Techniques)

These are combinations of basic techniques, again performed several times during a grading to a given count.


Ippon Kumite ('One Step Sparring')

Short combinations of attack and defence performed with a partner. These come in several varieties:

• Jodan Uke: defence against attacks to the head

• Chudan Uke: defence against attacks the torso

• Maegeri Uke: defence against kicks


Kihon Kumite ('Basic' Sparring)

These are pre-arranged sequences of moves. The name 'basic' here however is misleading, since these are the most subtle partnerwork combinations in the syllabus, relying on body shifting or deflection and simultaneous counterattack rather than explicit blocks.


Kata ('Form')

Katas are pre-arranged sequences of moves.


Jiyu Kumite (Free-Style Sparring)

Jiyu Kumite is freestyle sparring similar to WKF (competition fighting). Mainly being graded on the control, sportsmanship, combination from the syllabus and spirit.