Total Shotokan Karate - Student Information Pack

HISTORY OF SHOTOKAN

Karate as we know it originated from the RyuKyu Islands (known to us as Okinawa). Formerly an independent kingdom, Okinawa became a Chinese vassal state in 1372, and when all weapons were banned in 1429, there was a tremendous secret development of empty-hand fighting. In 1609 the islands were conquered by Japan and all weapons and martial arts were again banned; this again ensured the art's development to a formidable degree of efficiency. The fighting styles developed during this period in Okinawa were known simply as ‘Te’, which means hands.

Okinawan Missionaries who had been visiting China (when relations between the two were good) brought back Chinese systems of fighting. In addition to this, between the 18th and 19th centuries a Chinese visitor called Kushanku (or Koso Kun) demonstrated and taught Ch'uan Fa (Chinese boxing and grappling) on the island of Okinawa. The islanders apparently liked it and adapted parts of it to include with their indigenous fighting systems. This meant that 'Te', what was once a basic form of self-defence, was growing in complexity. Chinese influence brought open hand techniques from Ch'uan-Fa as what was now called Tode was developing. Tode’s most famous master was Sokon (Bushi) Matsumura (1798-1890), royal bodyguard to three generations of the Sho Dynasty. Due to his level of skill in the Martial Arts the name ‘Bushi’ meaning ‘Warrior’ was bestowed on him.

Shuri-te, Tomari-te and Naha-te were three different Styles of Te that had developed from different regions of Okinawa. The term karate first appeared in 1772, when an Okinawan called Sakugawa started to teach what he called karate-no-sakagawa.

Gichin Funakoshi is known today as the father of modern day karate. He was born in 1868 in Okinawa. As a boy he studied karate under two masters, Master Itosu and Master Azato. When Funakoshi grew up he became a school teacher, training in karate all the while with both masters. Around 1902 Okinawans recognised the valuable character building aspects of karate and introduced it as part of physical education in schools.

In 1922, the Japanese Ministry of Education held a martial arts demonstration in Tokyo and Funakoshi was asked to introduce Okinawan karate to Japan. His demonstration had a powerful affect on the Japanese public and after the demonstration Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, asked Funakoshi to stay and teach karate at the Kodokan, his Judo dojo. Eventually Funakoshi had enough students to open the first karate dojo in Japan. The dojo was called 'Shotokan' ('Kan' means 'building', 'Shoto' means 'pine waves', which was Funakoshi's pen name). In 1955, Funakoshi established the Japan Karate Association. Funakoshi served as chief instructor of the JKA until his death in 1957.

The development of shotokan karate was hindered during the time of the Second World War, however during the late '40s, Post-war development of karate began, with most of the input coming from the late Master Nakayama 9th Dan. Part of Nakayama’s plan for the development of Shotokan was the spread of karate worldwide. He established this by sending his young dynamic instructors around the world to spread the word of this new eastern fighting art. England was lucky enough to host many Japanese instructors, but two in particular had a massive influence on Karate in the UK, Kanazawa Sensei and Enoeda Sensei.

ABOUT TOTAL SHOTOKAN KARATE Introduction

Total Shotokan Karate was formed in 2018, by senior instructors Adam Cockfield & Dan White.

At Total Shotokan Karate we truly believe that Karate is for everyone and offer a structured teaching programme to cater for all ages and abilities.

We are proud of and celebrate the Japanese roots of our art, however we are not slaves to tradition and our instructors are consistently exposing themselves to new training methods and ideas to ensure that the style of Karate that we teach in the club is progressive and does not stagnate.

Our Ethos

Our ethos is that Shotokan Karate should be taught and practiced as a well-rounded Martial Art. Therefore, in our Clubs we aim to teach the full spectrum of Karate, which not only focuses on the traditional three "K's" of Kihon (Basics), Kata (Forms) and Kumite (sparring) but also Kata Bunkai (analysis/applications), impact work, grappling and self-protection (which also contains a focus on prevention and the law).

We do not view each of these as separate entities but interlinked and interdependent parts of the bigger jigsaw which makes up the complete art. We also feel that each should be viewed with equal importance relevant to a Karateka's age and progression.

Broadly speaking we characterise our training into 3 areas;

1. Karate for Fighting - Fighting is two individuals engaged in an encounter within a set of rules. This could be dojo sparring, Competition Kumite (Shobu Ippon, WKF, Full contact), MMA etc. The aim of this training is to teach the techniques and tactics required to "win" those fights.

2. Karate for Survival - Karate's original intention was as a civilian self-protection system. The Kata and their applications are rooted in these principles. This significantly differs from fighting, as in these situations rules do not apply and the only aim is to survive. Some of the techniques and tactics derived from learning to "fight" have an obvious cross over into this area, but it is important to understand that they are two different approaches.

3. Karate for the Art - Karate is both brutal and beautiful and the stylistic beauty aspect shouldn't be overlooked in training. Karate is an individual activity and the Art aspect allows a Karateka to strive to constantly develop themselves and their technique, giving a lifetime of study relevant to all ages. This aspect also helps to develop efficient movement, which has obvious benefits for the other areas.

In recent times we feel that Karate, and Shotokan in particular, has fallen into two camps, both of which sit at opposite ends of the spectrum. At one end some groups focus almost exclusively on the Art of Karate and competition Karate at the expense of the more practical elements (Kata bunkai, self protection, grappling & impact) and the other, you can find purely practical clubs whose "Function over Form" ethos can lose the benefits that the Art of Karate and aspects like competition Karate can bring to the development of a Karateka.

Our aim is to bridge the whole spectrum and develop students in a holistic manner and give them access to the full spectrum of Karate. The lead Instructors of Total Shotokan Karate and many of their peers & friends embody this approach and we aim to develop our students in the same manner.

Our Mission Statement

“Striving to train and pass on a version of Shotokan Karate that covers the art, fighting techniques and self-protection”

Our Name

Our name was chosen as we feel it represents what we stand for, to teach and train the full spectrum of Shotokan Karate. It also reflects that we feel that Shotokan Karate, when trained in the correct manner, can be a complete Martial Art. We want to be complete, we want to be the best. We are Total Shotokan Karate.

Our Badge

Our badge reflects our training influences. Through the Shotokan Tiger in the badge, we respect and are proud of the Japanese heritage and influence on the Art of Shotokan Karate. However, we aren't tied to our only influence being from Japan, as in our experience and opinion many of the best and most influential Instructors we have trained with are from the West. We are therefore also proud to be English/British Karateka and the flag in our badge demonstrates this.

USEFUL TERMINOLOGY

General Terms

Japanese English Translation

Dojo Training Hall

Sensei Instructor

Rei Bow Migi Right

Hidari Left

Yoi Ready

Hajime Start/begin

Yame Finish/stop

Mawatte Turn

Gi Karate suit

Obi Belt

Kihon Basic techniques

Kata Formal exercises

Kumite Sparring or partner work

Jodan Head

Chudan Middle body

Gedan Lower body

Oss To greet other Karate people or to acknowledge a request

Uke To block or to receive

Tsuki To punch (becomes zuki when used with another word i.e. Gyaku Zuki

Keri To Kick (becomes geri when used with another word i.e. Mae Geri

Uchi To Strike

Techniques & Stances

Japanese Translation

Heisoku dachi Feet together stance (bowing)

Heiko dachi Parallel stance (yoi)

Zenkutsu dachi Front stance

Kokutsu dachi Back stance

Kiba dachi Horse straddle stance

Gedan Barai Downward block

Age Uke Rising block

Soto Uke Outside block

Shuto uke Knife/Sword hand block

Uchi Uke Inside block

Oi Zuki Stepping punch

Gyaku Zuki Reverse punch

Empi Uchi Elbow strike

Mae geri Front kick

Mawashi geri Roundhouse kick

Yoko geri kekomi Side thrust kick

Yoko geri keage Side snap kick

Kumite & Kata

Japanese English Translation

Ippon Kumite One Step Sparring

Sanbon Kumite Three Step Sparring

Gohon Kumite Five step sparring

Jiyu Ippon Kumite Semi-free style sparring

Jiyu Kumite Free style sparring

Kihon Kata White Belt Basic Kata

Heian Shodan Red Belt Kata

Heian Nidan Orange Belt Kata

Heian Sandan Yellow Belt Kata

Heian Yondan Green Belt Kata

Heian Godan Purple Belt Kata

Tekki Shodan Purple & White Belt Kata

Bassai Dai Brown Belt Kata

Bunkai

Japanese English Translation

Bunkai The process of analysis to break down a kata to look for its combative principles

Oyo The combative applications, implications & principles of the Kata

Henka Variations on the Oyo which demonstrate the same principles

DOJO RULES

Dojo Kun

At TOTAL Shotokan Karate, especially in our kids classes, we do focus on these principles. We seek to develop good human beings who aim to perfect their own character and there we encourage and expect them to show integrity, honesty, loyalty, effort, hardwork, respect, courtesy, consideration and control of their behaviour.

However, it is important to remember this quote from Yasuhiro Konishi (founder of Shindo Jinen-ryu Karate)

“Karate aims to build character, improve human behavior, and cultivate modesty; it does not, however, guarantee it.”

The Dojo Kun are a set of five guiding principles set out by the Founder of Shotokan Karate, Gichin Funakoshi.

TSK Dojo Rules

1. Always show respect toward the club and its equipment.

2. Respect must be shown toward the instructor, fellow classmates and guests at all times.

3. Always address the instructor with the appropriate title (Sensei), while in the Dojo.

4. Remove shoes before entering the Dojo

5. Always bow in and out of the dojo (at the entrance/exit to the dojo)

6. Always try to arrive to class before it starts (5-10 min).

7. If you cannot be at class when it starts please discuss it with the instructor. If you are late, please bow into the dojo and sit in seiza (kneeling position) until invited to join the class.

8. If you need to leave the class early, please discuss with the instructor before the class.

9. All uniforms must be clean and free of tears, rips or stains.

10. Personal cleanliness is essential. Please attend to all aspects of personal hygiene : Your Karate Gi should be washed after every session, fingernails and toenails must be kept short, deodorant must be worn etc

11. No jewelry is allowed to be worn during class.

12. No eating, drinking or smoking is permitted in the Dojo.

13. You cannot train in a class whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Should you be suspected of being under the influence you will be asked to leave the class.

14. Respond to the instructor after demonstration of a technique with a verbal confirmation

15. We are all responsible for each other’s safety so all students must:

o Be conscious of your control of any striking techniques

o Joint locks of holds should be applied with slow and continuous pressure until you partner says “tap” or taps out.

o Before executing a throw of takedown, make sure the mat is clear.

o Watch for objects/obstructions/people in your partners way whilst doing any partner work

16. Give the person you are working with feedback and also receive feedback from your partner well. They are trying to help you!

17. Be aggressive in your skills but not toward your partner. You should work as hard as you can but at your own pace. Do not be overly competitive, you should only ever be in competition with yourself!

18. Pre-existing or health conditions must be declared on the new student form and communicated to your Instructor and partner.

FOUNDATION GRADE SYLLABUS

Foundation Grade 1 (White Belt with a Red Stripe)

Kihon (All Standing)

• Choku Zuki (Standing straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Standing Upper Rising Block)

• Mae Geri (Standing front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Standing downward block

Kumite (All Standing)

• Blocking static Jodan (Face) punches with Age-Uke & Chuden (stomach) punches with Gedan-Barai

Foundation Grade 2 (White Belt with a Orange Stripe)

Kihon (Stepping with no turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping Upper Rising Block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block)

Kata

• Kihon Kata (First four moves)

Kumite (All Standing)

• Blocking full Jodan (Face) punches with Age-Uke & Chuden (stomach) punches with Gedan-Barai

Foundation Grade 3 (White Belt with a Yellow Stripe)

Kihon (Stepping with no turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto-Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi-Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block)

Kata

• Kihon Kata (Up to the first kiai)

Kumite (One Step)

• Oi Zuki Jodan (Stepping face punch) attack with Age-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

Foundation Grade 4 (White Belt with a Green Stripe)

Kihon (Stepping including turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto-Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi-Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block

Kata

• Kihon Kata - Whole Kata complete or portion of Kata performed well

Kumite (One Step)

• Oi Zuki Jodan (Stepping face punch) attack with Age-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

• Oi Zuki Chudan (Stepping stomach punch) attack with Soto-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

Foundation Grade 5 (White Belt with a Purple Stripe)

Kihon (Stepping including turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto-Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi-Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block

Kata

• Kihon Kata - Whole Kata complete or portion of Kata performed well

Kumite (One Step)

• Oi Zuki Jodan (Stepping face punch) attack with Age-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

• Oi Zuki Chudan (Stepping stomach punch) attack with Soto-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

• Mae Geri Chudan (Front kick to stomach) attack with Gedan-Barai block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

Foundation Grade 6 (White Belt with a Brown Stripe)

Kihon (Stepping including turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto-Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi-Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block

Kata

• Kihon Kata - Whole Kata complete or portion of Kata performed well

Kumite (One Step)

• Oi Zuki Jodan (Stepping face punch) attack with Age-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki counter

• Oi Zuki Chudan (Stepping stomach punch) attack with Soto-Uke block & Gyaku-Zuki

• Mae Geri Chudan (Front kick to stomach) attack with Gedan-Barai block & Gyaku-Zuki

Foundation Grade 7 (White Belt with a Black Stripe)

Kihon (Stepping including turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto-Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi-Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block

• Kokutsu Dachi (backstance)

Kata

• Kihon Kata

Kumite (One Step) – Migi (Right) stance

• One Step Kumite (Jodan/Age-Uke, Chudan/Soto-Uke & Mae-Geri/Gedan-Barai) from right stance (opposite)

Foundation Grade 8 (Red Belt – 9th Kyu)

Kihon (Stepping including turns)

• Oi-Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age-Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto-Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi-Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block

• Shuto-Uke (Knife Hand Block) in backstance

Kata

• Heian Shodan

Kumite (One Step) – Migi (Right) stance

• One Step Kumite (Jodan/Age-Uke, Chudan/Soto-Uke & Mae-Geri/Gedan-Barai) from right stance (opposite)

KYU GRADE SYLLABUS

9th Kyu (White to Red)

Kihon

• Oi Zuki Jodan (Stepping straight face punch) forwards / Age Uke (Stepping upper rising block) backwards

• Oi Zuki Chudan (Stepping straight face punch) forwards / Soto Uke (Stepping outside block) backwards

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick) forwards / Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block backwards

Pad work

• 10 x Oi-Zuki & 10 x Mae-Geri on pads/bag

Kata

• Kihon

Kumite

• Ippon Kumte (One Step) Jodan/Age-Uke, Chudan/Soto-Uke & Mae-Geri/Gedan-Barai (both sides of the body)

8th Kyu (Red to Orange) – Min of 3 months after 9th Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Oi Zuki (Stepping straight punch)

• Age Uke (Stepping upper rising block)

• Soto Uke (Stepping outside block)

• Uchi Uke (Stepping inside block)

• Gedan Barai (Stepping downward block

• Shuto Uke (Knife Hand Block) in backstance

• Mae Geri (Stepping front snap kick)

Pad work

• 10 x Oi-Zuki & 10 x Mae-Geri on pads/bag

Kata

• Heian Shodan

Kumite

• Ippon Kumte (One Step) Jodan/Age-Uke, Chudan/Soto-Uke & Mae-Geri/Gedan-Barai (both sides of the body)

7th Kyu (Orange to Yellow) – Min of 3 months after 8th Kyu Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Nihon Zuki (Stepping double punch)

• Age Uke/Gyaku Zuki (Upper rising block/Reverse Punch)

• Soto Uke/Gyaku Zuki (Outside block/Reverse Punch)

• Uchi Uke/Gyaku Zuki (Inside block/Reverse Punch)

• Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki (Downward block/Reverse Punch)

• Shuto Uke (Knife Hand Block) in backstance

• Mae Geri (Front snap kick)

• Mawashi Geri (Roundhouse snap kick)

• Yoko Geri Keage (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)

• Yoko Geri Kekomi (Side thrust kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)

Pad work

• 10 x Oi Zuki & 10 x Gyaku Zuki on pads/bag

• 10 x Mae Geri & 10 x Mawash Geri on pads/bag

• 10 x Basic Shuto on pads/bag

Kata

• Heian Nidan

Kumite

• Gohon Kumite (5 attacks) – Jodan & Chudan

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) – Oi Zuki & Gyaku Zuki Only

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

Students under the age of 16 can be awarded a Mon (half) grade should the examining instructor feel that they have performed the exam, well but have not met the full requirements of the grade.

The Mon grade is the same colour belt as their current grade with a white stripe and is only available up to 5th Kyu (Purple Belt)

6th Kyu (Yellow to Green) – Min of 3 months after 7th Kyu Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Nihon Zuki (Stepping double punch)

• Age Uke/Gyaku Zuki (Upper rising block/Reverse Punch)

• Soto Uke/Gyaku Zuki (Outside block/Reverse Punch)

• Uchi Uke/Gyaku Zuki (Inside block/Reverse Punch)

• Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki (Downward block/Reverse Punch)

• Shuto Uke (Knife Hand Block) at a 45-degree angle - Forwards only

• Mae Empi (Front Elbow) into open hand

• Mae Geri/Oi Zuki (Front snap kick/lunge punch) – Technique held

• Mawashi Geri (Roundhouse snap kick)

• Yoko Geri Keage (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)

• Yoko Geri Kekomi (Side thrust kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)

Pad work

• 10 x Oi Zuki & 10 x Gyaku Zuki on pads/bag

• 10 x Mae Geri & 10 x Mawash Geri on pads/bag

• 10 x Basic Shuto on pads/bag

Kata

• Heian Sandan

Kumite

• Sanbon Kumite (3 Step Kumite) – Jodan, Chudan & Maegeri. Twice through showing both sides of the body

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) – Hands Only

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

Students under the age of 16 can be awarded a Mon (half) grade should the examining instructor feel that they have performed the exam, well but have not met the full requirements of the grade.

The Mon grade is the same colour belt as their current grade with a white stripe and is only available up to 5th Kyu (Purple Belt)

5th Kyu (Green to Purple) – Min of 3 months after 6th Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Nihon Zuki / Gedan Barai (Stepping double punch/Downward block)

• Age Uke/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai (Rising block/Reverse Punch/Downward block)

• Soto Uke/ Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai (Outside block/Reverse Punch/ Downward block)

• Uchi Uke/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai (Inside block/Reverse Punch/ Downward block)

• Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai (Downward block/Reverse Punch/ Downward block)

• Shuto Uke (Knife Hand Block) at a 45-degree angle

• Mawashi Empi (Roundhouse Elbow)

• Mae Geri/Gyaku Zuki (Front snap kick/reverse punch) – Technique held

• Mawashi Geri/Gyaku Zuki (Roundhouse snap kick/reverse punch) – Technique held

• Yoko Geri Keage (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)

• Yoko Geri Kekomi (Side thrust kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)

Pad work

• 10 x Oi Zuki/Gyaku Zuki & 10 x Mae Geri/Oi Zuki on pads/bag

• 10 x Advanced Shuto on pads/bag (pad holder has a guard)

Kata

• Heian Yondan

• Any previous Heian Kata at the examining instructors discretion

Kumite

• Ippon Kumite (One Step Kumite) – Jodan, Chudan, Maegeri, Kekomi & Mawashi Geri – All from hidari (left) stance

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor Students under the age of 16 can be awarded a Mon (half) grade should the examining instructor feel that they have performed the exam, well but have not met the full requirements of the grade.

The Mon grade is the same colour belt as their current grade with a white stripe and is only available up to 5th Kyu (Purple Belt)

4th Kyu (Purple to Purple & White) – Min of 3 months after 5th Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Uraken / Gyaku Zuki (Back fist / Reverse punch)

• Age Uke/Stationary Mae Geri (back leg)/Gyaku Zuki (Rising block/Stationary front kick/Reverse Punch)

• Soto Uke / Gyaku Zuki/Yoko Empi in kiba dachi (Outside block/Reverse Punch/ Sideways elbow in horse straddle stance)

• Uchi Uke/Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki (Inside block/Jab Punch/Reverse Punch)

• Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai (Downward block/Reverse Punch/ Downward block)

• Shuto Uke/Nukite (Knife Hand Block/Spear hand) at a 45-degree angle

• Tate Empi (Rising Elbow)

• Mae Geri/Oi Zuki Jodan (Front snap kick/Lunge Punch) – Technique from Juyi Kamae

• Mawashi Geri/Gyaku Zuki (Roundhouse snap kick/reverse punch) – Technique held

• Yoko Geri Keage (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)/Gyaku Zuki (Reverse Punch) in front stance/Gedan Barai (downward block) from Kiba Dachi

• Yoko Geri Kekomi (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)/Gyaku Zuki (Reverse Punch) in front stance/Gedan Barai (downward block) from Kiba Dachi

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

Pad work

• 10 x Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki on pads/bag

• 10 x Mae Geri/Oi Zuki

• 10 x Mae Geri/ Gyaku Zuki on pads

• 10 x Advanced Shuto on pads/bag (pad holder has a guard)

Kata

• Heian Godan

• Any previous Heian Kata at the examining instructors discretion

Kumite

• Ippon Kumite (One Step Kumite) – Jodan, Chudan, Maegeri, Kekomi & Mawashi Geri – All from migi (right) stance

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

3rd Kyu (Purple & White to Brown) – Min of 3 months after 4th Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Uraken / Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Age Uke/Stationary Mae Geri (back leg)/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Soto Uke / Gyaku Zuki/Yoko Empi (kiba dachi)/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Uchi Uke (back stance)/Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki /Gedan Barai from Juyi Kamae

• Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Shuto Uke/Mae Geri (front leg)/Nukite

• Tate Empi /Mawashi Enpi from Juyi Kamae

• Mae Geri/Gyaku Zuki Joda from Juyi Kamae

• Mawashi Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Yoko Geri Keage (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)/Gyaku Zuki (Reverse Punch) in front stance/Gedan Barai (downward block) from Kiba Dachi

• Yoko Geri Kekomi (Side snap kick) from Kiba Dachi (Horse straddle stance)/Gyaku Zuki

(Reverse Punch) in front stance/Gedan Barai (downward block) from Kiba Dachi

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

Pad work

• 10 x Suri Ashi (half step) Gyaku Zuki on pads/bag from Juyi Kamae

• 10 x Mae Geri/Oi Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• 10 x Mawashi Geri Gyaku Zuki on pads from Juyi Kamae

• 10 x Advanced Shuto on pads/bag (pad holder has a guard) incorporate cover

Kata

• Tekki Shodan

• 2 x Heian Kata at the examining instructor’s discretion

Kumite

• Juyi Ippon Kumite (One Step Semi Free Kumite) – Jodan/Chudan/Maegeri (both sides)

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

2rd Kyu (Brown to Brown & White) – Min of 6 months after 3rd Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki/Mae Gari/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Age Uke/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Soto Uke/Gyaku Zuki/Yoko Empi (kiba dachi)/Uraken from Juyi Kamae

• Uchi Uke/Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki /Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki/Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Maji Uke (in backstance)

• Mikazuka Geri from Juyi Kamae

• Gyaku Zuki/Mawashi Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Ushiro Geri from Juyi Kamae

• Ura Mawash Geri from Juyi Kamae

• Yoko Geri Keage (from front stance on 45-degree angle)

• Yoko Geri Kekomi (from front stance stepping backwards only

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

Pad work

• 30 seconds Suri Ashi (half step) Gyaku Zuki on pads/bag from Juyi Kamae (moving)

• 30 seconds Mawashi Geri Gyaku Zuki on pads from Juyi Kamae (moving)

• 30 seconds Mawashi Enpi on pads on Juyi Kamae

Kata

• Bassai Dai

• 2 x Heian Kata or Tekki Shodan at the examining instructor’s discretion

• Demonstrate one bunkai/oyo from one Heian kata chosen by the Karateka

Kumite

• Juyi Ippon Kumite (One Step Semi Free Kumite) – Jodan/Chudan/Maegeri /Yoko Geri

Kekomi/Mawashi Geri/Ushiro Geri (both sides)

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring)

• Defence against HAPV (Habitual Acts of Physical Violence) – Lapel grab & Haymaker

Clinch, Grappling & Ground

• Clinch Drill & elbows from Collar & Elbow grip

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

1st Kyu (Brown & W to Brown & 2 W) – Min of 6 months after 2nd Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki/Mawashi Geri Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Age Uke/Uraken/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Soto Uke/Gyaku Zuki/Yoko Empi (kiba dachi)/Uraken/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Gyaku Uchi Uke(shift back)/Oi Zuki/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Oi Zuki/ Gedan Barai (same arm/leg into niko ashi dachi)/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Shuto Uke/Mae Geri (front leg)/Ose Uke Nukite on a 45-degree angle

• Mikazuka Geri/Empi from Kiba Dachi

• Mawashi Geri/Gyaku Zuki/Mawashi Geri (front leg) from Juyi Kamae

• Ushiro Geri from Juyi Kamae (spin forwards & straight back backwards)

• Ura Mawash Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Uraken/Yoko Geri Keage (from front stance on 45-degree angle)

• Fumakiri Kekomi from front stance forwards only

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

Pad work

• 1-minute Suri Ashi (half step) Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki/Mawash Geri (off front leg & back) on Pads (Moving)

• 1-minute Front Leg Mawashi Geri, Gyakyu Zuki on Pads (Moving)

• 1-minute Elbows at the instruction of the pad holder (Moving)

Kata

• Bassai Dai

• 3 x Heian Kata or Tekki Shodan at the examining instructor’s discretion

• Bunkai/oyo from one Heian kata chosen by the Karateka and one chosen by the panel

Kumite

• Juyi Ippon Kumite (One Step Semi Free Kumite) – Jodan/Chudan/Maegeri /Yoko Geri

Kekomi/Mawashi Geri/Ushiro Geri/Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki (both sides)

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) – Randori/Dojo Style

• Defence against HAPV – Single lapel grab, double lapel grab & Haymaker

Clinch, Grappling & Ground

• Clinch Drill & elbows from Collar & Elbow grip & Thai clinch (showing escapes & strikes)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

Shodan (Brown & 2 W to Blackbelt) – Min of 12 months after 1st Kyu

Kihon (All “blocking” techniques done forwards & backwards unless stated)

• Kizami Zuki/Gyaku Zuki (with half step)/Ashi Barai/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Age Uke/Stationary Mae Geri (back leg)/Gyaku Zuki (with half step)/Gedan Barai from Juyi Kamae

• Soto Uke/Gyaku Zuki/Yoko Empi (kiba dachi)/Shuto/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Gyaku Uchi Uke (shift back)/Gyaku Kizami Zuki/Mae Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Oi Zuki/Gyaku Zuki/Gedan Barai (same arm/leg into niko ashi dachi)/Gyaku Zuki (front stance) from Juyi Kamae

• Shuto Uke/Mae Geri (front leg)/Ose Uke Nukite on a 45-degree angle

• Maji Uke/Kage Zuki (kiba dachi)

• Mae Geri/Mawashi Geri (same leg)/Gyaku Zuki (front leg) from Juyi Kamae

• Mawashi Geri (front leg)/Gyaku Zuki/Mawashi Geri (back leg)/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Ushiro Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae (spin forwards & straight back backwards)

• Gyaku Zuki/Ura Mawash Geri/Gyaku Zuki from Juyi Kamae

• Uraken/Yoko Geri Keage/Mae Empi (from front stance on 45-degree angle)

• Fumakiri Kekomi from front stance forwards/Kekonmi backwards from front stance going backwards

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

Pad work

• 3 x 1-miunte padwork at the instruction of the pad holder

Kata

• Sentai (chosen) Kata – From Bassai Dai, Kanku Dai Jion or Hangetsu

• Shitei (compulsory) Kata - 5 x Heian Kata & Tekki Shodan

• Bunkai/Oyo from one Heian kata chosen by the Karateka and one chosen by the panel

• Bunkai/Oyo from section(s) as requested by the panel in your Tokui kata

Kumite

• Juyi Ippon Kumite (One Step Semi Free Kumite) – Jodan/Chudan/Maegeri /Yoko Geri

Kekomi/Mawashi Geri/Ushiro Geri (both sides)

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) – Randori/Dojo Style (2 x 1 minute)

• Defence against HAPV – Single lapel grab, double lapel grab, haymaker & headlock

Clinch, Grappling & Ground

• Clinch Drill & elbows from Collar & Elbow grip & Thai clinch (showing escapes & strikes) include knees, head, bicep bump & takedowns

• Demonstrate bridge (solo)

• Demonstrate shrimp (solo)

• Demonstrate technical stand-up (solo)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

Nidan (1st Dan to 2nd Dan) – Min 2 years from Shodan & min age 16

Kihon

• Examiners choice of kihon from previous grades

• Straight, cross, hook, uppercut

• As above but with Taesho

• Tate- Empi, Mawashi-Empi, Hiza-Geri, Mawashi-Empi

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

Kata

• Shitei (Compulsary) Kata – One of Bassai Dai, Kanku Dai, Jion or Hangetsu chosen by the panel

• Sentai (Chosen) Kata - One of Kanku Sho, Jitte, Bassai Sho or Enpi chosen by the Karateka

• Tokui (Chosen) Kata – Free Choice of Kata

• Demostrate bunaki/oyo of section(s) of both Sentai & Shitei Kata as chosen by the Karateka

• Demostrate bunaki/oyo of section(s) of your Tokui Kata as requested by the panel

Pad work

• 1-minute Straight, cross, hook on pads moving

• 1-minute Cross, Hook, Upper Cut on pads moving

• Driving knees

• 2 mins free for all on pads moving

Clinch, Grappling & Ground

• Clinch Fighting from Collar & Elbow grip & Thai clinch (showing escapes & strikes) include knees, head, bicep bump & takedowns

• Demonstrate bridge (with compliant partner)

• Demonstrate shrimp (with compliant partner)

• Demonstrate technical stand-up (with compliant partner)

Kumite

• Juyi Ippon Kumite (One Step Semi Free Kumite) – Jodan/Chudan (gyaku-zuki)/Maegeri

/Yoko Geri Kekomi/Mawashi Geri/Ushiro Geri (front & back leg) (Stalking)

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) – Randori/Dojo Style (2 x 1 minute) back to back against a senior grade

• Defence against HAPV – Single lapel grab, double lapel grab, haymaker, headlock, throat grab & low kick (2 attackers)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

Sandan (2nd Dan to 3rd Dan) – Min of 3 years from Nidan and min age 21

Kihon

• Examiners choice of kihon from previous grades

• Straight, cross, hook, uppercut, Mawashi-zuki (stepping)

• As above but with Taesho

• Tate- Empi, Mawashi-Empi, Hiza-Geri, Mawashi-Empi (then pivot)

• Any combination above can be requested to be shown with a partner or on pads/bag

• Tokui Renzoku Waza (favourite fighting technique or combination)- Demonstrate your favourite fighting combination

o As a solo basic (both sides)

o With a partner

o On pads / kick shield

o 10-15 minute physical thesis on your Tokui Renzoku Waza to demonstrate your understanding.

▪ Thought starters on themes to discuss (angles, distance, set ups, how can the combination change with a change in distance, can the combination be modified to work from a self protection perspective? i.e. body mechanics)

Kata

• Shitei (Compulsary) Kata – One of Kanku Sho, Jitte, Bassai Sho or Enpi chosen by the panel

• Sentai (Chosen) Kata - One of Nijushiho, Sochin, Gankaku or Tekki Nidan & Sandan (must perform both) chosen by the Karateka

• Tokui (Chosen) Kata – Free Choice of Kata

• Demonstrate bunaki/oyo of section(s) of both Shitei & Sentai Kata as chosen by the Karateka (2 or 3 sections per Kata)

• Demonstrate bunaki/oyo of section(s) of your Tokui Kata as requested by the panel (2 or 3 sections)

Pad work

• 5 x 1 min rounds of padwork

o Hands Only

o Feet Only

o Knees & Elbows

o All In x 2

• Demonstrate pre-emptive striking Clinch, Grappling & Ground

• Clinch Fighting from Collar & Elbow grip & Thai clinch (showing escapes & strikes) include knees, head, bicep bump & takedowns

• Demonstrate bridge (with resistant partner)

• Demonstrate shrimp (with resistant partner)

• Demonstrate technical stand-up (with resistant partner)

Kumite

• Juyi Ippon Kumite (One Step Semi Free Kumite) – Jodan/Chudan (gyaku-zuki)/Maegeri /Yoko Geri Kekomi/Mawashi Geri/Ushiro Geri (front & back leg) (Stalking)

• Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) – Randori/Dojo Style (3 x 1 minute) back to back against a senior grade

• Defence against HAPV – Single lapel grab, double lapel grab, haymaker, headlock, throat grab & low kick (2 attackers)

The syllabus provided above is only a guide and changes (either additions or exclusions) may be at the discretion of the examining Senior Instructor

Yondan (4th Dan) – Min of 4 years from Sandan & min age of 25

Grading syllabus is at the discretion of the TOTAL Shotokan Karate Senior Instructors

Godan (5th Dan) - Min of 4 years from Yondan & min age of 35

Grading syllabus is at the discretion of the TOTAL Shotokan Karate Senior Instructors