Dan Syllabus

Dan Grading Requirements

SHODAN (80 hours practice and at 1 year's wait after obtaining 1st kyu )

1st to 7th Form any technique requested

8th Form Ikkyo to Yonkyo

13th Form 9 basic techniques (random choice)

Candidates need to submit at least 1 essay not less than 1000 words before the examination on a topic which may be at the discretion of the Sensei.

Any from above plus Taninzu waza (with and without weapons), Tanto-tori, jo-tori, and ken (boken) tori in Randori no kata.

Candidates should by now have acquired enough knowledge to display any defense from any attack requested competently. Higher grades are expected to know forms beyond those listed.

Candidates must submit a thousand-word thesis on any aspect of aikido and this must be handed in before the grading.

Candidates will be expected to display Ryo no keiko.

Candidates will be asked to explain a technique, through demonstration, this does not mean that the candidate will automatically qualify as a teacher.

Not only must the techniques of nage be committed and display the spirit of aiki, but they must also be able to fulfill the role and responsibility of being a uke.

Candidates for Dan grades will be before a panel which may include the Director of Aikido and/or Kancho.

Notes:

The above syllabus represents a progressive guide to the techniques of Aikido but still only gives the basic minimum requirements, and it is up to the discretion of the examiners to decide what is appropriate to the individual and the circumstances prevailing. Any medical problems or queries must be brought to the notice of the Director or the senior grading officer in the first instance.

NIDAN (2 years after obtaining 1st Dan)

1) Must be in regular training after obtaining 1st Dan.

2) Tandoku dosa and Sontai dosa (To include advanced breath and preparatory exercises).

3) The candidate will be asked any technique from any attack.

4) Mokuroku (From Hanmi-handachi, Suwari & Tachi waza).

5) Kokyo nage & Aiki nage.

6) Tanto tori, Ken\Boken tori & Jo tori.

7) Aiki-jo

8) Taninzu waza (With and without weapons plus show the various practice methods as listed in the syllabus).

9) At least two Katas (Related to Aikido)

10) Understanding the principles and applications of Atemi waza.

11) Working knowledge of Shiatsu.

12) Understanding of Yin\Yang philosophy.

13) Demonstrate a technique to a class appropriate to the level.

14) Basic practical self-defense as requested.

15) A comprehensive understanding of Japanese terminology and cultural philosophy will be expected. Also, the fundamental principles of Seishin aiki (spiritual aiki) must be understood and the candidate must be able to express the relationship of Aiki to life.

16) An essay, not less than 1500 words is to be submitted before the examination on any subject relating to Aikido or as advised by the Sensei.

NOTES:

On attaining Shodan the candidate has shown s\he has accepted the responsibility and commitment to the discipline. They have served their apprenticeship in the ranks of the Kyu grades and have prepared themselves for the first step, in a way of life. Shodan is not the end of the journey but the beginning of an experience. Subsequent Dan grades are not so much a chest for collecting techniques, but how we apply them to our lives.

Candidates should be prepared to give a reason for their grading. Higher grades should have, the grace to embrace those around them with an aura of inner power and spiritual strength as they practice even the simplest techniques or movements. The candidate must show creativity, spontaneity, adeptness, and spirit. For example when demonstrating Taninzu waza the transition from Tachi waza to Shiko must be natural, flowing, and multi-directional.

Candidates must be adequately prepared and approach the gradings with the right attitude for they must be fully aware that they are setting an example for others to follow.

SANDAN (2 years after obtaining 2nd Dan)

1) Must be in regular training after obtaining 2nd Dan.

2) The grading panel will use its discretion to determine the requirements of the individual and the circumstances on the day.

3) The candidate will have to demonstrate a high level of competence, in everything they display.

4) A 2,000-word essay on any aspect of Aikido.

5) Basic sword techniques.

6) An understanding and theory of the 5 elements.

7) Self-defence techniques, as requested by the examining panel.

8) Katas - minimum of 3 and must relate to Aikido.

9) Teach a class - techniques relevant to their ability, and demonstrate the "elements" of teaching.

10) Displaying a catalog of techniques is not enough, candidates should now have captured the essence of aikido which should manifest itself in attitude and actions.

NOTES:

Candidates should know their motives and responsibilities before attempting the Dan grades. Hours spent on the actual practice of Aikido on courses and workshops will be considered. Examiners are responsible for making sure standards are adhered to and will encourage candidates to reach their limits of endurance in both the physical and the mental. Candidates must realize that the purpose of the syllabus is to guide and help the candidates develop themselves and give the examining body, the chance to create an environment so the candidates can fulfill their aim and goals.

Some parts of the Dan grades may not be practical to complete on the day and arrangements may be made to complete the grading at another time. There will be circumstances and special occasions when an individual will be considered for a grade and this will be endorsed by the appropriate body, who will respectively evaluate the merits of the case, providing there is 100% approval from the parties concerned.

IMPORTANT: Anyone and their particular dan grades must only participate with the express permission of their Sensei. It is the responsibility of individuals to find out their requirements well in advance so they are best prepared to fulfill their obligations. Dan grades must not be presumptuous to take it upon themselves to attend an examination expecting to get a grade. That displays a lack of fundamental respect to not only the Sensei but to the dojo too. Once again, the above syllabus is just a guide giving the bare minimum requirements. The examiners reserve the right to amend and modify the "requirements", at their discretion which may reflect on prevailing circumstances. In the event of any issues, the decision made by the senior examiner is final. We hope you will show your respect and accept any decision with grace and in the spirit of Aikido.