Before
the exam each candidate must have the following: Proper Manner
(reiho), wearing attire correctly (chakuso), posture (shisei)
and correct attitude (taido). Additionally the men himo cord length
and shinai (position of nakayui) must be properly adjusted.
Shodan
• Basic hits and thrusts (kihon datotsu).
• Proper
chudan ready posture (Tadashi chudan no kamae).
• Correct shinai gripping (Shinai no nigiri).
• Demonstrate full kiai/spirit shout (Jyujitsu shita kiai).
• Proper distance to opponent (Maai)
• Posture & body
movement (Shisei to karada no unyo)
• Kerikaeshi.
Nidan
• Attacking techniques (Shikake waza).
• Receiving techniques (Oji waza).
• Timing/opportunity for attack (Datotsu no kikai).
• Combination multiple hit attacks (Nidan Sandan no uchi).
Sandan
•
Requires higher development of techniques than Nidan.
• Correct
hits & thrusts with pressing (Seme no aru datotsu).
• Using
correct timing during before & after response attacks
(Sen to ato no datotsu no kikai).
• Correct application of shinai for cutting, as opposed to mere hitting,
to make a valid strike, with a reason, at a logical opportunity
(Tadashi hasuji to riai ni kanata datotsu).
Yondan
• Demonstrate kendo ability by manner and maturity (Fukaku).
• Sophisticated
and refined attitude.(Kihin).
• Dignity (Kigurai).
• Attacking effectively with shinai tip pressure (Kensen no kita
semeai).
• Crisp gripping during hit (Te no uchi no sae).
• Use
the correct distance & timing for offense and defense
(Kobo no maai no torikata).
• Leadership and instructor ability (Shidosha to shite no shikaku).
Godan
• While training demonstrate Fukaku and Kihin (see yondan #1-2).
• Possess real technical ability for leadership (Shidosha to shite
no jitsuryoku ga sonna wate iru).
