• 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 Shodan, you must meet the following guidelines:

    • Be minimum 16 years of age.
    • Have been a brown belt at least 18 months of Active Training (see definition).
    • Attend a minimum of 2 Black Belt Clinics each calendar year and they must be recorded in your passbook.
    • You are encouraged to compete or participate in 2 SWKKF tournaments annually
    • Additional kata requirements:
      • Kushanku
    • 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).

    The attributes that are required to progress to the rank of Shodan are as follows:

    1. Technical Basics. a. Present and have a good comprehension of the basic techniques and katas as outlined within the grading curriculum. b. Present the technical aspects of waza, kihon, kata and kumite as outlined in grading curriculum.
    2. Evidence of the major rules. a. Hip rotation (98% of the time your hips must rotate one way or the other). b. 99% of the time your Shoulder, elbow, hip and knee follow each other. c. 99% of the time when you turn, it is always in a wide stance. d. When turning, you must set your foot approximately 45 degrees past the direction you are going to.
    3. Show good form and power in basics, advanced basics and kata.
    4. Demonstrate kime (focus, ki ken tai ichi), spirit, and control while performing kihon and kumite techniques.
    5. Targeting a. Proper range of blocks b. Be precise on the location of your strikes, punches, kicks. Demonstrate proper targeting in all sections of the grading.
    6. Distancing and Timing. a. Demonstrate proper range for the technique(s). b. Demonstrate timing at execution of technique offensively and defensively.
    7. Taisabaki (body shifting) a. Core body movement b. Correct rotation for blocks and strikes.
      1. Follow the directions of the instructor on the day of the grading.