Bassai Karate

Academy
Student Manual
Welcome to Bassai Karate Academy! Congratulations on taking the first step in your study
of Karate. As you begin your training, you will probably have quite a few questions which
we would like to answer now.

Karate, as a martial art, originated on the small island of Okinawa and has become a very
fast growing sport along with an excellent method of self-defense. In a proper program
Karate can develop flexibility, increased endurance, and self-confidence. Additionally for
children, we see a dramatic positive change in responsibility, self-esteem, and motor skills.
Besides, it’s a lot of fun!

Bassai Karate Academy is part of the Kissaki-Kai organization. Kissaki-Kai is an interna-

tional organization of schools around the world. All of the schools follow similar training
programs. We all follow similar standards in the way we teach, promote students in rank,
and the attitude and the behavior which we project on the community. We hold very high
standard for all our students and, therefore, do not allow any fighting, showing off, or mis-
use of Karate in any manner. Kissaki-Kai holds several camps a year for adults, and all
Kissaki-Kai members are encouraged to participate.

As you begin to read this manual, you may discover that some information needs more ex-
planation than is given. This manual is designed as a supplement to class participation, not
a complete text of information. The manual’s purpose is to serve as a guide for practice
away from the Dojo.

Our goal at Bassai Karate Academy is to help you become the most proficient martial artist
possible. We are committed to this philosophy by providing a program that is challenging,
dynamic, and fun.

Again, we are pleased to have you and wish you success in your training.
 Mission Statement

To provide a location where all our area

citizens, regardless of gender, race, age, or
religious orientation, can experience the
positive life changing benefits of the
martial arts training we offer.

To aspire in being inspirational role models of

personal excellence through our
example as Black Belts both in and out
of our karate academy.

To ensure the long-term growth of our

academy and its staff by
offering continued mental, physical, and
educational opportunities
to both our students and employees.

To continually strive to improve our students,

ourselves, and our academy by
providing legendary student service.
 What is Karate-Do? By Hirokazu Kanazawa
It is a martial art in which the ultimate purpose is not to
seek to win but to work toward perfection of character by
the accumulation of experience through training. It is also
a form of self-defense using all parts of the body, which by
hard and systematic training become effective powerful
weapons. Karate encompasses whole body movements,
which develops balance so that an overall maturity of
movement is created. Karate incorporates the use of the
entire body where the legs, hips, spinal column, shoulders
and arms are all made to react with each other in a me-
chanically co-ordinated system so that power which has
been created at different points of the body is finally chan-
neled into a single area with tremendous force.

This kind of co-ordination is achieved through the constant

practice of the basic movements (kihons) which, due to
their variety and complexity, can be considered as a com-
plete art form in themselves. The mastery of these funda-
mental techniques ensures a strong foundation for progress
and expansion in the two other aspects of Karate-Do—
formal exercises (Katas) and sparring (Kumite).

Karate-Do has increased greatly in popularity throughout

the world, which is good for true Karate, but there are cer-
tain groups that have moved away from its true meaning,
eschewing moral and spiritual ideas. This attitude results in
too much emphasis being placed on free style fighting.
True Karate-Do practice is to train the body and spirit. To
respect one’s training partner it should be practiced with all
one’s heart and energy, and with humility.
 What is Kissaki-Kai Karate?

The name of the association: Kissaki-Kai has a great significance, as have the Torii (Gate) and Yin-Yang symbols in the
Badge. The sword was considered to be the `Soul' of the Samurai, and the blade itself a venerated object of both beauty and
deadly efficiency; a fusion of harmony and function. The Kissaki is the term for the deadly sharp cutting edge of the very tip. The
use of this term as a name for the karate association was carefully considered and deliberately chosen as representative of those
qualities which distinguish the manufacture of such a blade.

Just as it is forged in fire and water, hammered, pounded and beaten until all the impurities disappear and it is shaped
into perfection, just so is the spirit of the martial artist forged in the flames of challenge and adversity, tested and reworked time
and time again in the intense workshop of the Dojo until such time as it stands, a new creation, straightforward, bold, keen and
flexible, functional yet something more than it once was, stripped of the impurities of ego and falsehood. The Torii symbol of the
gate signifies the concept of entering deeply, not being concerned with the amount of things known, but more with the depth of
learning and knowledge to be gained by a constant striving to reach to the heart. A gate is something which is an entrance, but
one which demands total commitment. It requires that one must go through to the other side, not merely peer in from the
sidelines. No `half-heartedness' but bold endeavor, this courage will often be called upon to bolster the spirit in its journey, as
pitfalls and setbacks will continue to test the traveler. The Yin-Yang emblem denotes the concept of balance and harmony. A
constant reminder of the need for clear-sightedness, of temperance and of an understanding of the wholeness of a situation, a
problem or even an enthusiasm. So much for the name, but the `Why' is another matter!

Throughout his long martial arts career, Vince had never either envisaged, nor even considered that he might one day be
the head of his own Ryu. A long-time student of Shiro Asano 8th Dan , chief instructor of the SKIEF, he was a constant member
of the Honbu successful 'A' team and the SKI European squad in both Kumite and Kata. He developed, along with one or two
other notables from this stable, a formidable reputation for spirited fighting, but at the same time he was also active on the
political front, representing first the SKI, then eventually helping to establish the then governing body for English Karate, (EKF)
which in turn led to his appointment as the Chairman of the Martial Arts Commission. Vince was also instrumental in introducing
renowned karate-ka such as Aidan Trimble (the first westerner to win the SKI open-weight kumite world championship in
Tokyo) into the national squad and into contact with Ticky Donovan the then English national coach. Eventually a disagreement
between Vince and Asano sensei made it impossible for Vince to continue as his student, and (in a scenario very similar to that
shared by more than a few other contemporaries in the Honbu) he left and continued training in his own University Dojo. Soon
he was asked to join Toyakwai, a London-based group, which he was happy to do.

A few years later, Vince's old compatriot Aidan Trimble was also forced to sever his connections with the Honbu and the SKI. At
this time he approached Vince to ask his help in establishing a new karate group, to be named `The Federation of Shotokan
Karate'. This turned out to be successful, and Vince was happy to accede the position of Chief Instructor to Aidan. Sharing the
presentation of courses and the coaching, Vince's University Dojo continued to amass a notable number of championship
successes and when the FSK were asked to represent England at the JKA World Championships in Dubai Vince was the team
coach.

In March 1993 the new Kissaki-Kai Karate-Do was formed, with Vince as the head. In conversation Vince revealed his
feelings about establishing a new body, and about the proliferation of 'splinter' groups in general. "In principle I'm against the
way there are now so many groups all purporting to teach more or less the same art. It's a free country of course, but it seems a
shame to me that the long-term efforts of reputable teachers are undermined for what are often the shallowest of reasons!"
 "Naturally if an individual or a group of students really believe that their sensei has taken them as far as he
is able, then of course go and study under another. Is this any reason to abandon the former, however? Wouldn't it be
far better to bring this extra knowledge back into the Ryu?"

"Wouldn't it be far better to bring this extra knowledge back into the Ryu?" - Vince Morris

"There are other reasons why it must be necessary to break with a sensei, but all too often I see that the only
real reason is ego; the desire to be `The Boss' or maybe it is the financial considerations. I would ask all who consider
going this route to consider carefully if they are actually going to become students of a sensei who knows more than
the current one, or are you supporting baser reasons? If the karate is going in a different direction, or there are
demonstrable differences in the manner and the content of the teaching, then that is another matter all together."

What then, briefly, distinguishes the Karate practiced by Kissaki-Kai from that of most other Shotokan
schools? Conceptually Kissaki-Kai works from the basis of recognizing Shotokan for what it is, an undeniably
exciting and powerful combat sport. There is nothing wrong with this on one level, however study and the rigors
imposed by confronting the reality of the problems encountered in the real world soon reveal the shortcomings of a
style based upon long range techniques and a system of rules which preclude the use of the more effective and
dangerous Waza. Real combat situations rarely occur at distances which allow the defender much chance to employ
the most practiced techniques, which are favored in competition, such as mawashi-geri jodan, for example; the other
perennial standby - chudan gyakuzuki - is often less than successful in the street than it is assumed to be in the Dojo
and Shiajo.
History demonstrates just how much both the techniques and the practice of karate have been modified in
post -1930's Shotokan to develop a relatively safe combat sport. This has happened at the expense of the extremely
effective short-range techniques that are now seen only in the Kata, and then usually misunderstood. So, although the
modern karate-ka has indeed developed a new repertoire of powerful techniques at long range it has been at the
expense of in-depth training in the methods of self-defense contained within the Kata.
In itself, perhaps it could be argued that: It doesn't matter because an attacker can be stopped at
long range. Or the purpose of Karate is to develop the character rather than to serve as a method of self-
defense. Unfortunately statistics show that in more than 60% of combat scenarios the protagonists end up
grappling on the ground. And in answer to the latter, this type of view could well be applied to almost
anything, and to uphold it in the area of martial arts is to do a severe disservice to the old masters who
built their concept of character-building upon the bedrock of reality. In fact, of course, it is not necessary
that one element precludes the other, as the vast majority of original Waza can be found within the
Shotokan Kata, albeit often in a form latterly modified to form a more dynamic and athletically
challenging Kata.

Kissaki-Kai forms a synthesis of the old and the new - not throwing the baby out with the bath-
water, it continues to teach Shotokan basics, but it includes in the training many concepts and techniques
to be found within the Kata but frequently overlooked. Early versions of the Kata are also studied to help
understand the common combat concepts that underlie them, so emphasis is placed once more upon
making the techniques work in real situations. Common Shotokan exercises such as Gohon Kumite, which
is fine for beginners and inculcates spirit, a strong attack and so on, is transformed into Shin Gohon
Kumite, in which the combat ineffective practice of stepping directly backwards in the face of a frontal
attack and then blocking at unreal distances with techniques which are never used as blocks in reality is
replaced by tai-sabaki and real defenses at every attack. Thus the pattern is maintained but the form
becomes much more vital and meaningful, allowing practice in Kata Bunkai as it used to be in the pre-
sporting form.

Another Kissaki-Kai concern is to ensure that training is geared to each individual, whatever age
they happen to be. Expecting a 50-year-old to train in line at the same intensity and with the same
techniques as an 18-year-old is frankly ridiculous. Different ages - different needs: Kissaki-Kai is
attempting to encourage effective and productive training right up into a healthy old age. The senior
students are encouraged to develop their own particular objectives, and together with this shift in over-all
 Unless one might think that this would adversely affect those who were just interested in the sports side, note
that in the 1997 All Students Championships, a Kissaki-Kai black-belt from the Honbu Dojo won the heavyweight
women's event, and a week later only three Kissaki students entered the senior EKGB English National Championships,
and of the three one won silver, one won bronze and the third got through to the quarter finals! This competition success
continued in 1998. There is an important place in Karate training for the concentration upon kumite competition and
basics, and Shotokan basics are undeniable excellent for developing certain strengths.

In summary, although Kissaki-Kai teaches Shotokan Karate, it does so in a depth that leads the student into a
consideration of the roots from which it sprang, which in turn unavoidably demands that many other aspects are
practiced than those usually emphasized. It emphasizes `core principles' such as: correct combat distance, body shifting,
unbalancing, deflecting, controlling and finishing, in a manner in accordance with the ancient `rules of combat' rather
than in terms of 'sport' karate, and thus for the student the art is richer and life-long, with the concomitant that karate
reverts to the very effective self-defense system it always was, and individual development of character and clarity of
perception is constructed from a more solid base.
Some other notable teachers (Trad's own Harry Cook for example) have come to understand the shortcomings of modern
Shotokan and have added elements from other styles ( Goju ) to their regular training. In Kissaki-Kai however we prefer to research
the original forms and meanings and find with Itosu sensei's karate - before its further transformation in the later years of master
Funakoshi's life and thereafter (although not discounting the good elements of competition) almost all that is necessary for a
balanced and effective martial art.

So Kissaki-Kai Karate-Do is entering its 6th year, and the basis is there for all to see; good strong Shotokan karate and
coaching methods which are already producing National Champions, and at the same time an emphasis upon the individual needs of
all students based upon the old values and methods dating back to the days of the Shaolin.
 How to use the “Intent to Promote” Form

Since February, 2001, Bassai Karate Academy has been using the ”Intent to Pro-
mote” form for our students seeking rank promotion. It not only helps some stu-
dents become better citizens, but it also should raises the level of respect for our
program in the public school system and community.

The “Intent to Promote” form addresses two areas of each student’s life outside of
the martial arts. There is a place on the form that must be circled YES or NO by the
academic teacher to indicate if the student is performing satisfactorily and acting
with respect at school. There is another place on the form where a parent may
evaluate the child’s behavior at home. If a student does not get a yes from the
teacher and their parent(s), then the student waits until the next belt promotion to
test. This gives them time to think about it, and time to correct the problem. This
form will hold children accountable for their actions.

Like many martial arts programs, we get our share of parents who are bringing their
children to us hoping to fix their discipline problem(s). Some of these children may
have a rough time getting a YES on the form from their teachers or their parents.
This form should act as a tool for the parents and teachers to hopefully change their
children’s behavior.

We must receive every student’s “Intent to Promote” form, or we will not promote
the student. Understand that if we don’t make them wait should a teacher circle
NO, then we will lose credibility. We must follow through. This follow through is
what makes the entire “Intent to Promote” program work.

It is difficult to raise a disciplined child in today’s environment. That’s why so

many parents are looking to us for help. If we can teach children, in cooperation
with parents and teachers, to respect boundaries and authority figures, then we have
changed a child’s life in a positive and lasting way. It’s worth a try, don’t you
think?
 “Intent to Promote” Form

Notice of Intent to Promote: ___________________________________________

Dear Parents and Teachers:

Our Main objective at Bassai Karate Academy is to develop well-rounded students, not only in our karate school but in society as
well.

That is why our school teaches the principles of Black Belt Excellence. Not only do students become black belts in martial arts, but
they strive to become academic black belts and, eventually, corporate black belts or black belt employees. We use the words “black
belt” as a metaphor for personal excellence.

In order to monitor our students’ progress towards these goals, we respectfully request that you complete the following:

1) This student is respectful, doing satisfactory work and receiving passing grades. (Circle one)

AGREE DISAGREE

_____________________ ________________
Teachers Signature Date

2) My daughter/ son has been behaving in a respectful manner and cooperating at home. (Circle one)

AGREE DISAGREE

_____________________ ________________
Parents Signature Date

If one of our students does not meet these qualifications either at home, at school, or here at Bassai Karate Academy, we will hold
that student’s promotion until there has been satisfactory improvement.

If you have any direct feedback beyond the scope of this form, please feel free to write it on a separate piece of paper or call me di-
rectly at (231) 652-2556. Thank your for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Chief Instructor
Jerry Bomay
Bassai Karate Academy
 Dojo Code of Conduct

Club Rules for Members, Parents & Spectators:

1. Member’s dues must be current. If dues are not current, you may not train or take a test.
2. No use of tobacco products, horse-play, loud talk, or foul language in any part of the dojo.
3. Bow when entering and leaving the work-out area.
4. Keep fingernails and toenails short; do not wear watches and jewelry during class.
5. Always address your instructor in the dojo as “Sensei” or the appropriate “Mr.” or “Ms.” and the instruc-
tors last name.
6. During class, respond quickly to instructions without hesitation, and never argue with an instructor.
7. Show enthusiasm, spirit, and good sportsmanship at all times.
8. Always wear your complete gi unless specified otherwise by Sensei, and wash your gi regularly.
9. When working with others, always begin and end with a bow.
10. If you arrive late for class, bow in and wait for the instructor to signal you in to enter class. If you must
leave early, inform the instructor prior to the start of class.
11. Speak kindly of others, and be supportive. Negativity of any kind is not enjoyable to listen to and will not
be tolerated.
12. Inform us of any physical and emotional condition you or your child may have that may require special
attention. Work with us as part of your child’s continued mental, physical, and character development.

13. Bare feet only are allowed in the practice area.

14. All students are required to scan their attendance card before their class.
15. Please take home all items brought into the school. We are not responsible for gear, shoes, etc. left in the
locker room or Dojo.
16. Students should not come to class any earlier then 10 minutes prior to class. We are not a daycare for your
child.
17. There is to be no horse play or any activity that could be dangerous to others.
18. There is to be no behavior that could be deemed as sexual harassment.
 Dojo Kuhn

Seek Perfection of Character Strive to make your

spirit, mind and attitude the best it can possibly be.
Never stop trying to attain your goals.

Be Faithful Always remember where you came from.

We as people have a tremendous obligation to those
around us (Parents, siblings, family, and friends).

Endeavor Keep striving to attain your goals. After

reaching a goal, set a new goal and strive to reach that
goal.

Respect Others. Listening and showing you care for

others is one of the best ways to show respect.

Refrain from Violent Behavior. The most important in

the list of five ideals. We, as martial artists, must know
when to walk away and know when to stay and fight.

Bassai Karate Academy will hold each student person-

ally responsible for each and every Dojo principle. If
students do not adhere to our principles, they will be
asked to leave.
 Karate Uniform and Belt
The uniform that a karate student wears is called a gi. It looks like a pair of pajamas, but it’s
made of heavy cotton cloth. Bassai Karate Academy students wear all-white gis.

The color of your belt indicates your karate rank. All students start out as white belts. You
have to pass a test to advance to the next belt level. The colors are in this order: white, yellow,
orange, blue, green, purple, purple, brown, brown, brown, and black.

To tie your uniform, cross the right side over first and tie the strings on your jacket. Pull the
left side across and tie those strings.

To tie your belt, you need to first hold it up and find the exact middle. Put the middle part
against your stomach with the label on the left side. Wrap the belt all the way around your
waist and put the left side over the right. Now take what is now in the right hand and pull it
through under both pieces. Now take what is in your right hand and go over the top of the one
in your left hand forming an X. Come up through the hole and snug tightly.

Fig A Fig B Fig C

Fig D Fig E Fig F

 Basic Stretching Guide
Stretching is bodybuilding! Weight lifting thickens muscle fibers; stretching lengthens muscle fibers. Both
processes strain muscle tissue. Your body will repair the strained muscle by adding tissue, either increasing the
thickness or length of fibers. As a rule of thumb, after exercising or stretching, your body will require 48 hours to
complete the addition of new tissue. If, by the third day stimulating exercise or stretch is not repeated, your body
will begin to de-adapt. The new muscle tissue begins to disappear and the benefits of the exercise are lost.

If you stretch hard daily, you are not allowing new tissue to develop fully. If you stretch hard every third day, the
muscles will already have begun to lose the new tissue. It becomes obvious that a 48-72 hour schedule for stretching
is necessary.

Your next step is to decide how much strain to put on a muscle when stretching. If too little effort is used, too little
growth will occur. If too much effort is exerted, the muscle will require more than 72 hours to repair itself. By that
time, the muscle begins to de-adapt and benefit is decreased. Obviously, your stretching routine should begin as a
cautious experiment. You will become aware by trial and error of how hard to stretch. Generally, all soreness
should diminish within 48 hours. If you are still sore, you stretched too hard. Stretching too hard or too often will
cause scar tissue to develop. Scar tissue is not elastic and will not stretch. Be careful-remember Rome was not built
in a day.

Three Rule of Stretching

1. Relaxation- you must relax the muscles you are stretching. You cannot stretch a tensed or contracted muscle.

2 Myophasic Reflex- Muscles have sensors which check for changes in muscle length. For example, kicking
changes the muscle length very rapidly. This activates the myophasic reflex which means the muscle contracts hard.
This myophasic reflex will prevent you from stretching successfully. Stretching and bouncing will cause the myo-
phasic reflex to be activated. (This is called ballistic stretching). To avoid activating the myophasic reflex, stretch-
ing must be done slowly.

3 Safety- Stretching exercises must be under careful control. You must not overload the muscles being stretched.
In other words, the position you are in while stretching must be safe, with no chance of slipping or falling, or else
you can unconsciously tense or tear the muscle.

Finally, remember that kicking correctly is the ultimate stretch. Nothing will stretch your body as completely as a
kick. The leverage, force and relaxation inherent in kicking exercises will increase your flexibility more than any
stretching routine. Also, a kick is extremely specific in the muscle groups and fibers, which it stretches. Try to use
your stretching routine as a warm-up for kicking, or you can stretch after finishing a kicking exercise.

Remember the 48-72 hour rule. Don’t kick hard one day and stretch hard the very next day. Stretch and kick the
same day; or kick one day, rest on day two, stretch on day three. Good luck, be careful and much success.
 Power
The Beginning student may ask; “Where does one obtain the power to create the devastating results attributed to Ka-
rate?” This power is attributed to the utilization of a person’s full potential through the mathematical application of
Karate techniques. The average person uses only 10 to 20 percent of his potential. Anyone, regardless of size, age,
or gender who can condition himself to use 100 percent of his potential can also perform the same destructive tech-
niques.

Though training will certainly result in a superb level of physical fitness, it will not necessarily result in the acquisi-
tion of extraordinary stamina or superhuman strength. More important, Karate training will result in obtaining a high
level of reaction force, concentration, equilibrium, breath control and speed; these are the factors that will result in a
high degree of physical power.

Reaction Force- According to Newton’s 3rd law, every action has an equal and opposite reaction. We use reaction
force in Karate hand techniques by pulling our non-striking hand to the side or to our face. This reaction helps the
striking hand have more power.

Concentration- By applying the impact force onto the smallest target area, it will concentrate the force and there-
fore, increase its effect. It is important that you shouldn’t unleash all your strength at the beginning but gradually and
particularly at the point of contact with you opponent’s body. That is to say, the shorter the time for the concentra-
tion, the greater will be the power of the blow.

Equilibrium- By keeping the body always in balance, a blow is more effective and deadly. An unbalanced body is
one that is easily toppled. The stance should always be stable yet flexible, for both offensive and defensive move-
ments. To maintain good equilibrium, the center of gravity of the stance must fall on a straight line midway between
both legs when the body weight is distributed equally on both legs. Or in the center of the foot if it is necessary to
concentrate the bulk of body weight on one foot.

Breath Control- Breathing not only affects one’s stamina and speed but can also condition a body to receive a
blow and augment the power of a blow directed against an opponent.

Mass- Force is obtained from maximum body weight and speed, and it is all-important that the body weight be in-
creased during the execution of a blow. The maximum body weight is applied with the motion by turning the hips
like a whip. The large abdominal muscles are twisted to provide additional body momentum.

Speed- Speed is the most essential factor of power. The faster a technique is traveling, the more power it will have.
This is why historically the martial arts have attracted the smaller individuals who can learn to harness a great deal of
power due to the speed they generate in their techniques. The formula we can use to calculate the power of any tech-
nique is; P=1/2 mv2/time. P stands for power, ½ is a constant, M stands for mass, and V stands for velocity or speed.
This equation clearly reveals why developing speed is the most important factor in developing power
 Rank Promotion
Through consistent practice and dedication to Bassai Karate Academy, you will soon experience the pride, physical
and mental strength, and honor, which have always been associated with Karate training. You will also have the time
of your life being involved with such a motivated group of people.

Formal testing is generally held once a month. Promotional testing is an opportunity for students to present a formal
demonstration of their ability to each other and to the general public. This is a formal occasion, and great care should
be taken to ensure that you are adequately prepared before each testing.

Will you test at every test? The answer to this question is no. Every student will receive stripes on their belt signify-
ing the material demonstrated to that point was done correctly. When a student receives four white stripes and one
red stripe, they are ready to test. The red stripe means they can test in the next formal testing.

All school age students are required to pick up an “Intent to Promote Form”. They must have their teacher and parents
sign and agree to the testing. Any student who does not return their “Intent to Promote Form” by the day of testing
will not be allowed to test.

Parents, if you know your child has had a disagree on their “Intent to Promote Form”, please do not bring them in to
test. You will be the one responsible for telling them why they are not testing. So save the embarrassment and tears
for home. If you choose to bring them in it will only put you and the child in an embarrassing situation.

If a child can not make it to the testing, we will test them in class for up to one week after the test. Any longer than
that we will test them in the next testing session. Parents and/or students must notify Sensei prior to the testing date
should the student be unable to attend.

Test Fees and times will be posted approximately two weeks in advance. Test fees are subject to change.

To your excitement, all testing fees get cheaper the further you advance at Bassai Karate Academy

The testing fee, though it may appear to be an unnecessary and hidden cost, is designed to cover the cost of the belts
and time of the instructors on the panel.

The actual grading procedure is kept as simple as possible. Bassai Karate Academy has criteria for advancement
based on performance of formal exercise and practical self-defense. The judges will use these criteria to decide
whether or not the student should advance to the next level of rank. We also have criteria for a student who needs im-
provement but who may still advance and also for the student so gifted as to warrant special consideration.

As your instructor, I pledge to perform all testing functions to the best of my ability. We thank you for your support
and wish you success in your promotional testing
 White Belt Stripe Exams

STRIPE 1: Standing – Punch Face, Punch Stomach, Upper Block, Inside-Outside Block

STRIPE 2: Standing – (Add) Outside-Inside Block, Downward Block, Front Kick

STRIPE 3: Front Stance – Step forward in Front Stance, Upper Block

Step forward in Front Stance, Inside-Outside Block
Step forward in Front Stance, Outside-Inside Block
Step forward in Front Stance, Downward Block

STRIPE 4: Front Stance – (Add) step punch face, stomach, triple punch, Front kick

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Taikyoku Shodan

One Step Sparring- (All right side attacks)

3 x Punching Face, 3 x Punching stomach
Defender gets one block (back side) and one counter punch

Minimum Time as White Belt: Two Months

 Yellow Belt Stripe Exams

STRIPE 1: Yoi – Stepping forward and backward in Kokutsu-Dachi (Back Stance)

Yoi - Stepping forward and backward in Kiba-Dachi (Horse Stance)

STRIPE 2: Kokutsu-Dachi – (Not moving) 2 step Knife Hand Block, both sides
Hand on wall – (Not Moving) 4 step Side Snap Kick, both sides

STRIPE 3: Kokutsu-Dachi – Moving forward Knife Hand Block

Kiba-Dachi – Moving forward Side Snap Kick, both sides

STRIPE 4: Front Stance – Step forward in Front Stance, Upper Block

Step forward in Front Stance, Inside-Outside Block
Step forward in Front Stance, Outside-Inside Block
Step forward in Front Stance, Downward Block
Front Stance – (Add) step punch face, stomach, Triple Punch, Front kick
Kokutsu-Dachi – Moving forward and back Knife Hand Block
Kiba-Dachi – Moving forward step across in front, Side Snap Kick, both sides

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Taikyoku Shodan – Heian Shodan

One Step Sparring- (All left Side Attacks)

3 x Punching Face, 3 x Punching stomach
Defender gets one block (back side) and one counter

Minimum Time as Yellow Belt: Two Months

 Orange Belt Stripe Exams
STRIPE 1: Kokutsu-Dachi – (Not moving) 3 Count Knife Hand Block, Front kick,
both side
Hand on wall – (Not Moving) 6 count Side Thrust Kick, both sides
STRIPE 2: Zenkutsu-Dachi – (Moving forward) punch face followed by punch stomach
(Grab, Punch, Punch) (pull hand to hip)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – kick stomach, land punch Face (pull hand to hip)

STRIPE 3: Kokutsu-Dachi – Moving forward and back, Knife Hand Block followed by front kick
Kiba-Dachi – Moving forward, step behind, Side Thrust Kick, both sides

STRIPE 4: Front Stance – Step forward in Front Stance, Upper Block

Step forward in Front Stance, Inside-Outside Block
Step forward in Front Stance, Outside-Inside Block
Step forward in Front Stance, Downward Block
Front Stance – (Add) step punch face, stomach, Triple Punch (full hiki-te), Front kick
Kokutsu-Dachi – Moving forward and back Knife Hand Block, front kick
Kiba-Dachi – Moving forward Side Snap Kick, both sides
Kiba-Dachi – Moving forward Side Thrust Kick, both sides
Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-keage-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri)

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Heian Shodan – Heian Nidan

Must use correct hiki-te 100% of the time.
One Step Sparring- (Both right and left side attacks)
2 x L, 2 x R Punching Face, 2 x L, 2 x R Punching stomach
Defender gets one block (Back Side) and must counter twice

Minimum Time as Orange Belt: Three Months

 Blue Belt Stripe Exams
STRIPE 1: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Oi-Zuki (JO)-Gyaku Zuki (CH) (Full Hiki-te)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Age Uke-Gyaku Zuki
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Soto Uke-Gyaku Zuki

STRIPE 2: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Uchi Uke-Gyaku Zuki-Gedan Barai

Zenkutsu-Dachi – Mae-Geri (CH)-Ren Geri (JO)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Mae-Geri (CH)-Gyaku Zuki (JO)(Punch Stays and
full hiki-te)
Sanchin-Dachi – Hands on Hips, stepping forward and back in stance

STRIPE 3: Kokutsu-Dachi – Shuto Uke-Kizame Mae-Geri shift to Zenkutsu-dachi Nukite

Kokutsu-Dachi – Shuto Uke-Kizame Mae-Geri shift to Zenkutsu-dachi Gyaku- Zuki
Kiba-Dachi – Mawashi Geri (CH)
Kiba-Dachi – Mawashi Geri (JO)
Sanchin-Dachi – Mawashi Uke (Back hand blocks first)

STRIPE 4: All of the above performed at a higher degree of proficiency.

Sanchin-Dachi – Mawashi Uke - Gyaku Zuki
Kiba-Dachi – Mawashi-Geri (CH)
Kiba-Dachi – Mawashi-Geri (JO)
Kiba-Dachi – Yoko-Keage-geri (CH) & (JO)
Kiba-Dachi – Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)
Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-keage-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri, Mawashi-geri)

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Heian Nidan Heian Sandan

Deep stances 100% of the time.
Ippon Kumite - (Both Sides) Oi-Zuki (JO) & (CH) x 2
Must move to the backside of the opponent and have three counters.

Minimum Time as Blue Belt: Three Months

 Green Belt Stripe Exams
STRIPE 1: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Sanbon-Zuki (Full Hiki-te)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Age-Uke Gyaku-Zuki Gedan Barai
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Soto Uke Gyaku-Zuki Gedan Barai

STRIPE 2: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Uchi-Uke Gyaku-Zuki Gedan Barai

Zenkutsu-Dachi – Mawashi-Geri (CH) Gyaku-Zuki (JO)(Punch Stays)
(full hiki-te)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Mae-Geri (CH) Oi-Zuki (JO) (Punch stays Full hiki-te)
Nekoashi-Dachi – Hands on Hips, stepping forward and back in stance

STRIPE 3: Kokutsu-Dachi – Shuto-Uke Kizame Mae-Geri (CH) Nuki-te (CH)

Kokutsu-Dachi – Shuto-Uke Kizame Mawashi-Geri (CH) Nuki-te (JO)
Kiba-Dachi – Mawashi-Geri (CH)
Kiba-Dachi – Mawashi-Geri (JO)
Sanchin-Dachi – Mawashi-Uke Gyaku-Zuki
Nekoashi-Dachi – Kizame Kin-Geri Step
Nekoashi-Dachi – Step Kin-Geri
Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-keage-geri yoko-kekomi-geri Mawashi-geri)

STRIPE 4: All of the above performed at a higher degree of proficiency.

Kiba-Dachi – Yoko-Keage-geri (CH) & (JO)
Kiba-Dachi – Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Heian Sandan – Heian Yondan

Show strong spirit and focus.
Ippon Kumite - (Both Sides) Oi Zuki (JO) & (CH) x 2
Mae Geri (CH) x 2(Attacker Must Recover)
Defender must move to back side of opponent and have three counters
(Allowed one Safe Take Down) (Attacker is static)

Minimum Time as Green Belt: Four Months

 Purple Belt (1) Stripe Exams
STRIPE 1: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Age-Uke Mae-Geri Land Back Gyaku-Zuki (Full Hiki-te)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Uchi-Uke Gyaku-Zuki Gedan Barai (Full Hiki-te)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Soto-Uke shift to Kiba-Dachi Enpi-Uchi (Full Hikite)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – kizame mae-geri ren-geri gyaku-zuki (Hands up Full Hikite)
Karawaza (same leg, mae-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri ushiro-geri mawashi-geri)
STRIPE 2: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Kizame Mawashi-Geri (CH)-Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)
Zenkutsu-Dachi – Kizame Mawashi-Geri (JO)-Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)
Nekoashi-Dachi – Kizame Kin-Geri Step
Nekoashi-Dachi – Step Kin-Geri
Self-Defense – Defend against rear choke grab
Self-Defense – Defend against Cross Hand Grab

STRIPE 3: Zenkutsu-Dachi – Gyaku-Zuki (JO) Step Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (Full Hikite)

Zenkutsu-Dachi – Kizame Zuki (JO) Shuffle Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hikite)
Sanchin-Dachi – Mawashi-Uke Gyaku-Zuki (Block w/ front hand first)
Self-Defense – Escape Mounted Position (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
Self-Defense – Cross Choke 1 Attack (Fingers inside the collar)
Self-Defense – Cross Choke 2 Attack (Thumb inside the collar)

STRIPE 4: All of the above performed at a higher degree of proficiency.

Self-Defense – Defend against rear choke grab
Self-Defense – Defend against Cross Hand Grab
Self-Defense – Escape Mounted Position (Elbow escape)
Self-Defense – Cross Choke 1 Attack (Fingers inside the collar)
Self-Defense – Cross Choke 2 Attack (Thumb inside the collar)
Bunkai From Heian Shodan (Student Choice)
Bunkai From Heian Shodan (Instructor Choice)

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Heian Yondan – Heian Godan

Ippon Kumite - Oi Zuki (JO) & (CH) x 2, Mae Geri (CH) x 2, Kekomi x 2
(Attacker Must Recover)
Defender must go to front side of opponent and counter three times
Allowed three safe take downs (Attacker must stay static)
Minimum Time as Purple Belt 1: Four Months
 Purple Belt (2) Stripe Exams
STRIPE 1: Zenkutsu-Dachi (pull hands to hikite)
1 Gyaku-Zuki (JO) Step Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (Full Hiki-te)
2 Kizame Zuki (JO) Shuffle Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
3 Gyaku-Zuki (JO) Mae-Geri (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
4 Gyaku-Zuki (JO)-Ashi Barai Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
Self-Defense – High Standing Headlock Defense

STRIPE 2: Zenkutsu Dachi

1 Step back diagonally-Kizame Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) Recover (full hiki-te)
2 Kizame, Mawashi-Geri (JO) Step Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)
3 Mawashi-Geri (JO) step Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)
4 Age-Uke uraken uchi Gyaku-Zuki (CH)- Gedan Barai
Self-Defense – Low Standing Headlock Defense
Self-Defense – Escape Mount (elbow escape)

STRIPE 3: Zenkutsu-Dachi– Mawashi-Geri (CH) 360 deg Ushiro-Geri (CH) Gyaku-Zuki (CH)
Sanchin-Dachi – Mawashi-Uke Gyaku-Zuki (Block w/ Front hand first)
Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri Ushiro-geri Mawashi-geri)
Self-Defense – Escape Guard Position from knees (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
Self-Defense – Arm-lock Attack from mount

STRIPE 4: All of the above performed at a higher degree of proficiency.

Bunkai From Heian Nidan (Student Choice)
Bunkai From Heian Nidan (Instructor Choice)

RED TEST STRIPE: KATA - Heian Godan – Tekki Shodan

Basic grappling is required.
Shin Gohon Kumite (Ju-Dachi (JO) Attacks, Sanchin Dachi 3 counter defense)
Ju-Ippon Kumite Oi-Zuki (JO) & (CH) x 2, Mae-Geri (CH) x 2,
Kekomi (CH) x 2, Mawashi x 2, Ushiro x 2 (Attacker must Recover Quickly and one Stopper is al-
lowed) (Point sparring movement)
Allowed three counters (Must Try Take Downs)

Minimum Time as Purple Belt 2: Five Months

 Brown Belt (1) Stripe Exams

STRIPE 1: Zenkutsu Dachi

1 Sanbon-Zuki (Full Hikite)
2 Uchi-Uke Kizame Mae-Geri Kizame Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH)(full hiki-te)
3 Mae-Geri (CH) step Oi-Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (Full Hiki-te)
4 Mawashi-Geri (CH) Uraken-Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (Full Hiki-te)

STRIPE 2: Zenkutsu-Dachi
1 Kizame Mawashi-Geri (GA) Step Kakato-Geri Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
2 Ashi-Barai, Shuffle, Same Foot Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH)
3 Nidan Tobi-Geri Gyaku-Zuki (CH)
4 Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri, Ushiro-geri, Mawashi-geri)

Sanchin-Dachi (All Snap)

1 ¾ Zuki (JO)
2 Mawashi Zuki (JO)
3 Haito (JO)
4 Age Enpi

STRIPE 3: 1 Kata Tekki Shodan

2 Kata Bassai Dai

STRIPE 4: Kumite (Attacker Must Recover Quickly)

1 Shin Gohon/ Oi –Zuki (JO) (CH), Mae Geri (CH)
2 Ju-Ippon/ Add- Kekomi, Mawashi, Ushiro Geri
Defender may use a stopper!

RED TEST STRIPE: Self-Defense

1 Ground Headlock (Defense)
2 Guillotine Choke (Defense)
3 Escape Mount (Defense)
4 Escape Guard (Standing)
5 Arm-lock (Attack from Guard)
6 Key Lock (From Mount)
7 Clock Choke (Standing)
8 Same Side Wrist Grab
9 Cross Hand Grab
10 Hip Throw
11 270 Turn throw
12 Bunkai From Heian Sandan (Student Choice)
13 Bunkai From Heian Sandan (Instructor Choice)

Minimum Time as Brown Belt 1: Five Months

 Brown Belt (2) Stripe Exams
STRIPE 1: Zenkutsu-Dachi(full hiki-te)
1 Gyaku-Zuki (JO) Step Gyaku-Zuki (CH)
2 Kizame Zuki (JO) Shuffle Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
3 Gyaku-Zuki (JO) Mae-Geri (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
4 Gyaku-Zuki (JO) Step Ashi-Barai Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)
5 Step Diagonally Back Kizame Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH)
6 Kizame, Mawashi-Geri (JO) Step Yoko-Kekomi-geri (CH) (full hiki-te)
7 Mawashi-Geri (CH) Step yoko-kekomi-geri (JO)
8 Mae-Geri (CH) shuffle Same Leg Gyaku-Mawashi-Geri (JO)-
Gyaku Zuki (CH)
9 Kizame Mae-geri (CH) Mawashi-Geri (CH) Ushiro-Geri (CH) Uraken-Uchi (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH)
(Full Hiki-te)
10 Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri Ushiro-geri Mawashi-geri)
(full hiki-te)
STRIPE 2: Kata
1 Bassai Dai
2 Empi

STRIPE 3: 1Natural stance, Shift 45 deg Sanchin-dachi Mawashi-uke-Teissho-uchi recover

repeat on left side
2 Step back in Neko-ashi-Dachi, Shuto-uke, Kizame mae-geri, Gyaku Teissho-Uchi.
3 Ju-Dachi Mawashi Zuki-Kizame Zuki-Gyaku Teissho Uchi

Zenkutsu Dachi
1 Sanbon Zuki (Full Hikite)
2 Uchi-Uke Kizame Mae-Geri Kizame Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH)(full hiki-te)
3 Mae-Geri (CH) step Oi-Zuki (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (Full Hiki-te)
4 Mawashi-Geri (CH) Uraken-uchi (JO) Gyaku-Zuki (CH) (Full Hiki-te

STRIPE 4: Self-Defense
1 Guillotine Choke (Defense)
2 Escape Cross Mount (Defense)
3 Straight Arm Lapel Choke (Defense)
4 Escape Guard (Free)
5 Escape Mount (Free)
6 Two Hand Lapel Grab (Defense)
7 Over the arms Bear Hug (Defense)
8 Under arms Bear Hug (Defense)
9 Shoulder Throw (Offense)
10 Tomei-Nage (Offense)

RED TEST STRIPE: Bunkai From Heian Yondan (Student Choice)

Bunkai From Heian Yondan (Instructor Choice)\
Kumite (Attacker Must Recover Quickly)
Ju-Ippon/ Oi-Zuki (JO) & (CH), Kekomi, Mawashi, Ushiro Geri
Four Counters minimum and Take Downs on twelve
Advanced knowledge of grappling

Minimum Time as Brown Belt 2: Five Months

Brown Belt (3) Stripe Exams

Stripe 1
Step Forward Sanbon zuki.

Step Forward Age-uke, uraken-zuki, gyaku-zuki chudon, gedan-barai.

Step Forward Soto-uke, shift into kiba-dachi empi uchi, uraken-zuki, shift back to zenkutsu dachi, gayku zuki.
Step forward, uchi-uki, kazami mai gari, kazami-zuki jodon, gyaku-zuki chudon.

Step forward, mae-gari chudon, step in oi-zuki jodan, gyaky-zuki chudon.

Step forward mae-gari jodon, same side zuki jodon gyaku-zuki chudon.

Step forward Kokutsu-dachi shuto-uke, kazami mai-geri, shift into zenkutsu-dachi gyaku-zuki
Step forward Kokutsu-dachi shuto-uke, kazami mawashi-geri chudon, shift into zenkutsu-dachi gyaku-zuki

Step forward mawashi-geri chudon, uraken-zuki jodon, gyaku-zuki jodon

Kazami mae-geri chudon, mawashi-geri chudon, uraken-zukie jodon, gyaku-zuki jodon
Step forward mikazuki-geri chudon, gyaku-zuki-chudon, gedan-bari uke
Kazami mae-geri chudan, mawashi-geri chudon, 360 ushiro-geri chudon, uraken-zuki jodan, gyaku-zuki jodon
From natural stance shift 45 degrees into a sanchin-dachi, mawashi-uki, teissho-uchi, recover to natural stance and repeat on
the left.
Step back in nekoachi-dachi, shuto-uke, kazami mae-geri, gyaku teissho-uchi

Faint Mawashi Geri (GA)-Mawashi Gyaku Zuki (JO)

Kakato Geri-Ashi Barai (GA)-Gyaku Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)

Nidan Geri-Gyaku Zuki (JO)

Step Diagonally Back-Kizame Zuki (JO)-Gyaku Zuki (CH) (full hiki-te)

Karawaza (same leg, Mae-geri, yoko-kekomi-geri Ushiro-geri Mawashi-geri)

Also Applicant for black belt must be able to perform all kihons at previous ranks.
 Brown Belt (3) Stripe Exams Continued

STRIPE 2: Kata
1 Bassai Dai
2 Empi
3 Kanku Dai
4 Hengetsu
5 Jion

STRIPE 3: Kumite
Ju Kumite (Standing with takedowns)
Jiu-Jitsu (Free, no strikes)
Ju Kumite/Jiu-Jitsu (Free Spar Vale Tudo)
(Care of Partner is Paramount)

STRIPE 4: Self-Defense
1 Headlock against Wall (Defense)
2 Escape Rear Mount (Face Down)
3 Escape Rear Mount (Face Up)
4 Full Nelson (Defend Standing)
5 Shoulder Throw (Offense)
6 Tomei-Nage
7 Wrist Lock Throw

RED TEST STRIPE: 1 Bunkai From Heian Shodan (4 Examples)

2 Bunkai From Heian Nidan (4 Examples)
3 Bunkai From Heian Sandan (4 Examples)
4 Bunkai From Heian Yondan (4 Examples)
5 Bunkai From Heian Godan (4 Examples)
6 Bunkai From Tekki Shodan (4 Examples)

Thesis Paper on Student’s Topic of Choice (Discussed with Chief Instructor)

5 Pages, 12 Point Font (times new roman)

Minimum Time as Brown Belt 3: Six Months

Japeneas Vocabulary

Kumite Sparring
sanbon-kumite three step sparring
Gohon-kumite five-step sparring
Ippon-Kumite one-step sparring
Jiyu-ippon-kumite semi-free sparring
Jiyu-kumite free sparring

Kata Forms
Heian Shodan Peaceful mind #1
Heian Nidan Peaceful Mind #2
Tekki Shodan Iron Horse # 1
Bassai Dai Greater Fortress-Storming
Kanku Dai Greater Sky-Viewing
Kanku Sho Lesser Sky-Viewing
Empi Flying Swallow
Jion Temple Bell
Hangetsu Crescent Moon

Numbers
Ichi one shodan first
Ni two nidan second
San three sandan third
Shi four yondan fourth
Go five godan fifth
Roku six rokudan sixth
Shichi seven shichidan seventh
Hachi eight hachidan eighth
Ku nine kudan ninth
Ju ten judan tenth

General
Sempai Senior student
Kohai Junior student
Sensei Teacher
Yoi Ready
Yame Return (still ready)
Naore Relax
Rei Bow
shomeni rei Bow to the front
Senseini rei Bow to Teacher
Sempaini rei Bow to senior students
Otegaini rei Bow to each other
Dojo Kun Club Ideals
Kamae Posture
Hajime Begin
Kamae-te Begin
Kime Focus
Ki Vital energy
Kiai Shout
Tanden Center of Body
Seiza sit (kneeling)
Mokuso Meditation
Kyu Color belt rank
Dan Black belt rank

Te-waza Hand Techniques

Choku-zuki Straight punch
Gyaku-zuki Reverse punch
Oi-zuki stepping punch
Kizami-zuki jab
Uraken-zuki uppercut
Mawashi-zuki roundhouse punch
Kagi-zuki Hook punch

Uraken-uchi Backfist strike

Shuto-uchi Knife-hand strike
Nukite Spear-hand
Haito-uchi Ridge-hand strike
Teisso-uchi Palm-heel strike
Empi-uchi Elbow strike

Age-uke Rising block

Ude-uke Forarm block
Soto ude-uke Outside forarm block
Uchi-uke Inside forarm block
Gedan-Barai Downward block
Nagashi-uke Sweeping block
Juji-uke X-block
Shuto-uke Knife-hand block
Morote-uke Augmented block
Mawashi-uke Round Block

Ashi-waza Foot Techniques

Mae-geri Front kick
Mae-geri keage Front snap kick
Mae-geri kekomi Front thrust kick
Yoko-geri Side kick
Yoko-geri keage Side snap kick
Yoko-geri kekomi Side thrust kick
Mawashi-geri Roundhouse kick
Ushiro-geri Back kick
Mikazuki-geri Crescent kick
Ashi-barai Foot sweep
Namigaeshi inside sweep
Dachi Stances
Zenkutsu-dachi Front stance
Kokutsu-dachi Back stance
Kiba-dachi Horseback stance
Hachiji-dachi (shizen-tai) Natural stance
Heisoku-dachi Feet together stance
Fudo-dachi Rooted stance
Sanchin-dachi hourglass stance
Hangetsu-dachi Crescen moon stance
Juji-dachi Crossed-feet stance