Advanced
Sankyū
The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are required to earn the rank of sankyū (3rd class), which is expressed by wearing a brown belt.
There is no time-in-rank requirement, but 30-40 months of total training time is typically needed to reach this level.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the required terminology and techniques, in both English and Japanese:
- Demonstrate the required kata (Katachi no Chugoku-te Dō, Seisan Sai).
- Perform 50 self-defense techniques.
- Demonstrate ability in kumite.
- Demonstrate knowledge of all previous qualifications.
Nikyū
The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are required to earn the rank of nikyū (2nd class), which is expressed by wearing a brown belt (though alterations are often made to differentiate between different brown belt grades).
There is no time-in-rank requirement, but 36-48 months of total training time is typically needed to reach this level.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the required terminology and techniques, in both English and Japanese:
- Demonstrate the required kata (Ichi no Hebi, Nunchaku Kata).
- Demonstrate the unbendable arm, unbreakable circle, and immovable man.
- Perform 60 self-defense techniques.
- Demonstrate ability in kumite.
- Demonstrate knowledge of all previous qualifications.
Ikkyū
The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are required to earn the rank of ikkyū (1st class), which is expressed by wearing a brown belt (though alterations are often made to differentiate between different brown belt grades).
There is no time-in-rank requirement, but 42-56 months of total training time is typically needed to reach this level.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the required terminology and techniques, in both English and Japanese:
- Perform the required kata (Chūgoku ni Chikara Himitsu, Hamahiga no Tonfa).
- Perform 70 self-defense techniques.
- Demonstrate your ability in kumite.
- Demonstrate leadership ability, through the following:
- Assist with dōjō upkeep maintenance.
- Demonstrate the ability to run warm-ups.
- Demonstrate the ability to lead and teach small groups of lower-ranked students.
- Demonstrate knowledge of all previous qualifications.