Note: definition of active training:

• Active training pertains only to SWKKF training. Attending a minimum of 9 hours training per month with active participation within the class for a total of 10-12 months per year.
• To receive the rank of Sandan, in addition to meeting all previous rank requirements you must meet the following guidelines: 1. Have been a Nidan at least 3 years of Active Training (see Section B definitions). 2. Attend a minimum of 2 Black Belt Clinics each calendar year and they must be recorded in your passbook. 3. You are encouraged to compete or participate in 2 SWKKF tournaments annually and they must be recorded in your passbook. 4. The individual must be of strong moral character and demonstrate mental and emotional maturity and should be reflected in their behavior. The student must be in compliance with the Code of Conduct (Section “A” – Code of Conduct of the SWKKF Standards and Ethics). 5. The individual must be able and willing to convey their knowledge of Wado Kai karate through example. An exceptional teacher must be able to bring the best out of all their students and help continue to grow a strong federation as Hanshi Masaru Shintani has set the foundation for. 6. Additional kata requirements: a. Chinto. The attributes that are required to progress to the rank of Sandan are as follows: 1. Improvement on previous rank requirements. 2. Transitions between movements. 3. Shintani Kihon-Kumite techniques. The attributes that are suggested to enhance further knowledge and understanding include: 1. Transitions a. Quick transitions between movements b. Fluidity of movement of techniques by removing additional prepatory movements (I.E. Sets) 2. Good understanding of Shintani Kihon-Kumite techniques 3. Some understanding of bunkai from 5 Pinan Kata’s (Not evaluated). Students are encouraged to attend the Shintani Bunkai Courses 4. Kata a. Finish the move completely before moving to next. (Observable Kime) b. Show a good balance of speed, power, timing, spirit, and flow c. Fluidity throughout kata SWKKF Grading Manual  Version 2.2  December 2022 22 d. Effective sequences e. Conformance to the expected standards 5. Technical Basics a. Proficiency can be observed through efficiency and effectiveness of technique in all sections of the grading. b. Elimination of extra movement. 6. Demonstrate good body mechanics and alignment combined with form, speed and power in all sections of the grading. 7. Show confidence in the performance in all aspects of the grading sections. 8. Demonstrate Kime (focus, ki ken tai ichi), spirit, and control while performing kihon and kumite techniques. 9. Targeting. Demonstrate effective targeting 10. Distancing and Timing. a. Demonstrate effective range of blocks and strikes b. Timing of effective techniques (offense and defense) c. Demonstrate Go-No-Sen (Block and then Counter), Sen-No-Sen (Attack the Attack) and Sen-Sen-No-Sen (Attack before the attack). 11. Taisabaki (Body Shifting). a. Demonstrate core body movement. b. Correct rotation for blocks and strikes. 12. Follow the directions of the instructor on the day of the grading.