NORTH AMERICAN UECHI KARATE ASSOCIATION, INC.
GUIDE FOR STUDENT TESTING AND PROMOTIONS
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
The following guide is published as an aid to students seeking advancement. Although you the student are ultimately responsible for the learning of new material, you shouldn't assume that your partner will automatically know what you should be working on. Therefore, when working with a senior student and that student asks the question, "What are you working on?", you may both consult this guide for the answer.
SECTION 2 STUDENT INSTRUCTIONS TAKEN FROM THE JAPANESE
2.1 The following translations from the Japanese are Instructions For Students and Directions For Dojo Activity. These rules are found at the rear of the Providence dojo in their original Japanese calligraphy. They are useful formulas by which students of UECHI RYU should conduct themselves in their, dealings with others, and by which they should pursue their dojo practice.
2.2 INSTRUCTIONS FOR STUDENTS
1. The purpose of studying UECHI RYU is to develop in the karate devotee a healthy, well-coordinated person both physically and mentally, and to train him so that he may master the weaponless defensive art.
2. The karate devotee must always be on his best behavior, taking a modest attitude toward others, setting great value on courtesy among people, tidying up his dress, being careful of his speech and actions, and being diligent in his study.
3. The karate devotee must not make himself a nuisance to others by using harsh language and committing violence toward them. He must never allow himself to be under the influence of unnatural substances.
4. The karate devotee must not bring disgrace even in the slightest degree upon his school, or upon himself by making tasteless and shameful utterances and actions.
5. The karate devotee must not be self-centered and must not run to the easy and idle way of life. He must make a constant effort to continue hard work enabling him to fill his mind with the vigor of life.
DIRECTIONS FOR DOJO ACTIVITY
1. The Martial Arts begins and ends with respect.
2. Bow upon entering and leaving the dojo, indicating your respect for that place.
3. Diligently follow the instructions given by your instructor and your seniors.
4. Thoughtless and careless actions such as whistling, singing, and social conversation have no place in the dojo.
5. Smoking is prohibited.
6. Refrain from engaging another student in idle talking and make the best use of the time given for your class.
7. Practice in a business-like manner. If you need to rest, do so in an area where you will not interfere with another's workout.
8. Person to person relationship in the dojo must be reinforced by courtesy and affection.
9. You are responsible for keeping your conduct under control inside and outside of the dojo.
SECTION 7: Tests and Promotions
7.10
The ranking system of UECHI RYU fulfills two purposes. The first purpose is to establish a seniority system. By this, each student learns his or her level in the chain of command. Senior students can, at a glance, know the working level of any particular junior student and offer help accordingly. The junior student is able to know where to look for help-specifically, toward those of senior rank. The advanced student learns to offer a helping hand and benefits from the confirmation of his/her own knowledge.
The second purpose is to establish a reward system for achievement. Certainly, the greatest reward derived from the study of karate is the improved condition of mind and body as well as a sense of well-being and confidence. These feelings, however, do not come immediately and are often elusive. Expect your karate to cycle in "ups and downs'. One day you may feel great about what you are doing, and the next day you may feel depressed about your progress. One day you may have energy, the next day you may feel weak. These are characteristics of all human endeavors.
You will always rise from a downtrend in karate, but only if you maintain your practice effort and perform regularly the exercises assigned to you. Only those students who practice through the "downs" will continue to improve. The promotion system recognizes and rewards a student's progress.
Tests for ranks below green belt are held privately with an assigned black belt. Emphasis is placed on minimizing the pressure on a student during these early test experiences. The black belt will handle the newer student with care and consideration, taking into account any special problems the student might have such as nervousness or poor coordination.
Tests for ranks green belt and higher must be performed before the formal class. They are granted when time permits and when enough black belts are present to support an adequate test. Requests for these tests will be considered only after the applicant has sought a pre-test review with a black belt. The tests are designed to determine the student's ability to perform in pressured situations as well as to determine his basic karate knowledge.
A student wishing an advanced test between the ranks of Gokyu (green belt) and Ikkyu (3-stripe brown), inclusive, who has obtained a black belt's recommendation to take the test, should request the test from the instructor at the beginning of the desired class. The black belt recommendation constitutes reasonable assurance that the student is adequately prepared for the test. Every effort will be made to accommodate the student's request, otherwise a recommendation will be made to test in another class. Green belt tests require the presence of two black belts to comprise the test board. Brown belt tests require the presence of three.
All students are required to display their ranks according to accepted procedures.
7.11 ORIENTATION, CLASSES 1 THROUGH 4, FOLLOWED BY A TEST FOR KYUKYU.
10 kyu-Jukyu (White belt): New students are automatically white belts on enrollment. They are permitted to join the warming up exercises at the beginning of each class, after which they receive individual instruction in the first exercise of UECHI RYU, the active meditation exercise Sanchin.
Since Sanchin is the core exercise of UECHI RYU upon which all advanced movements are built, emphasis is placed on repetitious practice of individual movements. The new student should be prepared to concentrate on this initial aspect in his/her training and to practice faithfully and patiently the repetitions assigned. When the student has memorized and can perform Sanchin with reasonable accuracy, no hesitations, and no instructor help, he/she will be promoted to Kyukyu by the instructor. The test is commonly given at the fourth class.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Kyukyu (9 kyu)-Represented by one green stripe on each end of the white belt.
7.12 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A KYUKYU
A Kyukyu student may learn the following exercises:
Kotikite (forearm and leg conditioning/balance strengthening)
Kanshiwa [a kata (partnerless dance-like combination of self-defense moves)]
Kyu kumite (a pre-arranged fight-first 3 parts only) Technique exercises.
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 12TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 6 KYUKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD REQUEST A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE (TEST) FROM ANY BLACK BELT.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Hachikyu (8 kyu)-Represented by two green stripes on each end of the white belt, with a separation between green stripes.
7.13 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A HACHIKYU
A Hachikyu student may practice the following new exercises:
Kyu kumite complete (adding parts 4 and 5)
Consheewa bunkai (an applications exercise with a partner of the kata Consheewa)
Basic multiple blocking and counter-attacking (arms techniques only, slow motion)
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 25TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 10 HACHIKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Sichikyu (7 kyu)--Represented by three green stripes on each end of the white belt, with a separation from the other green stripes.
7.14 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A SICHIKYU
A Sichikyu student may learn the following new exercises:
Kanshu (a kata)
Kumite #1 (a pre-arranged fighting exercise performed with a partner)
Basic multiple blocking and counter-attacking (slow motion arm and leg techniques)
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 37TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 10 SICHIKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Rokukyu (6 kyu)-Represented by a green bar on each end of the white belt. This is accomplished by filling the spaces between the three Sichikyu stripes with green tape.
7.15 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A ROKUKYU
A Rokukyu student may learn the following new exercises:
Kanshu bunkai (an applications exercise of the kata Kanshu performed with a partner)
Dynamic multiple blocking and counter-attacking (increased performance pace)
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 50TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 10 ROKUKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE FROM ANY BLACK BELT.
The test for Gokyu represents the student's first exposure to formal testing before an audience consisting of members of the class. At the student's 50th class he/she should seek the review of a black belt (all black belts are qualified to give these reviews). The student will either (1) be recommended for testing or (2) be given corrections and a practice assignment. At a future class the student will demonstrate the corrections to the same black belt. If the corrections were made the black belt will recommend the student for formal testing. Once a reviewer is selected, the student is required to complete the review with that black belt.
The test, which consists of any previous material learned to date, performed at an adequate level of confidence and accuracy, is administered by a minimum of two (2) black belts.
Students who receive their promotions to Gokyu will have their names placed on the dojo wall ranking system. The placement is temporary for rankings below black belt and will be removed if the student suspends training for more than six months. (Black belt awards are permanent and senior side of the wall ranking system reflects all black belt holders affiliated with the Providence dojo who have been promoted since the year 1966.)
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Gokyu (5 kyu)-Solid green belt.
7.16 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A GOKYU A Gokyu student may practice:
Seichin (a kata)
Gokyu kumite (a partner fighting exercise)
Soft level free sparring (slow motion and/or powerless free fighting)
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 75TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 20 GOKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE. Following the same general review procedures as indicated for the Gokyu test, and upon recommendation of the black belt reviewer, the student may request a formal test before the class for Yonkyu.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Yonkyu (4 kyu)--Green belt with one brown stripe on each end.
7.17 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A YONKYU A Yonkyu student may practice:
Dan kumite (an advanced black belt level prearranged fighting exercise)
Moderately intense free sparring (Medium power and speed)
Performance in all material already learned should be noticeably improving. -
The test for Sankyu may consist of any or all material learned to date. AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 100TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 20 YONKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE. Following the same general review procedures as indicated previously, and upon recommendation, the student may request a formal test for Sankyu. -
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Sankyu (3 kyu)-Brown belt with one black stripe on each end.
7.18 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A SANKYU A Sankyu student may practice:
Seisan (a kata)
Sankyu kumite (an advanced prearranged fighting exercise performed with a partner)
Unrestricted free sparring (according to capability, full power and speed)
Proper breath control is important, supporting the development of power.
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 150TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 40 SANKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE.. Upon recommendation, the student may request a formal test for Nikyu.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Nikyu (2 kyu)--Brown belt with two black stripes on each end with a separation between them.
7.19 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS A NIKYU A Nikyu student may practice:
Seisan bunkai (an applications exercise of the kata Seisan performed with a partner)
The student should perfect all techniques learned thus far in order to establish the strength and effectiveness necessary for black belt testing.
AT OR AFTER THE STUDENT'S 200TH CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 40 NIKYU CLASSES, THE STUDENT SHOULD ASK FOR A REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE. Upon recommendation, the student may request a formal test for Ikkyu.
The Ikkyu test is an exact duplicate of the Shodan (first degree black belt) test. It is performed before a full committee of black belts in the black belt class. Exceptions may be made and the test given in other classes if adequate numbers of senior black belts are present and sufficient reasons exists for a waiver.
PROMOTION AWARDED IS: Ikkyu (1 kyu)-Brown belt with three black stripes on each end with a separation between them.
7.20 WHAT YOU MAY LEARN AS AN IKKYU
An Ikkyu student should develop increased proficiency in accuracy, power, concentration, awareness, inner control, calmness, and partner control in order to earn an invitation for the Shodan test before the authorized testing board.
THE STUDENT BECOMES ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE BOARD FOLLOWING HIS/HER 80TH IKKYU CLASS, BUT NOT BEFORE 350 TOTAL CLASSES. ADDITIONALLY THERE IS A MINIMUM TIME REQUIREMENT OF TWO YEARS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR SHODAN TESTING.
The Shodan and all higher rank testing are available to students only by invitation from the Board. It is improper to ask to take a Shodan test. The test consists of the following minimum material: Sanchin, Seisan, Seisan Bunkai, Selected technique exercises, Dan kumite, Sankyu kumite, Kotikite, General knowledge, and Free sparring. Other known material may be included at the option of the testing board. Consult the advanced study guides (under development) for additional information regarding Shodan and higher rank testing. Students promoted to Shodan will receive a world recognized, registered diploma. Their wall rank slats will be permanently placed on the dojo wall in the Black Belt (Dan) rank section.
Black Belts are invited to practice in closed classes, seminars, and social events restricted solely to black belt holders of NAUKA. Requirements for higher ranks of black belt are the same as for Shodan except the kata is different and proficiency requirements are increased. The kata Seiryu is practiced at Shodan, the kata Kanshin is practiced at Nidan, and the kata Sanseiryu is practiced at Sandan level. Minimum time between grades is 2 years up to the rank of Yondan, 3 years to Godan, and 5 years to Rokudan. Consult advanced study guides for further information.
SECTION 8: GENERAL RULES AND CLARIFICATIONS
8.10 Students are strictly prohibited from practicing karate material in a higher rank level. Students found in violation risk expulsion from the school.
8.11 If a student lacks confidence to request a test, he/she should seek advice from any black belt. Rest assured that with adequate performance we will eventually encourage the test.
8.12 Kyu ranks must be displayed by the students according to accepted procedures, i.e. appropriate belt (mandatory).
8.13 It should be noted that karate training may include much more material than is included in the above tests. This extra material is supplementary and will not generally be tested. Test boards reserve the right to override this general rule.
8.14 Students who do not pass their tests are encouraged to practice their corrections sufficiently to insure passing on retest. This may require some time before the next test attempt. Seek a black belt's help for clarification of your abilities and for encouragement to try again.
8.15 Black Belt tests are strictly by invitation only. DO NOT ASK to be tested for these ranks.
SECTION 9: FREQUENTLY ASKED TEST QUESTIONS
9.10 What is the name of this style of karate? Ans. Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do. Translation Uechi-the master's name, Ryu-style, Karate--empty hands or Chinese hands, Do-the 'way'.
9.11 Where does the style originate? Ans. Fukien (Fujian) Province of China.
9.12 What is the original name of the style? Ans. Puong-gai-noon, meaning half hard, half soft.
9.13 What was the late master's name, the headquarters dojo location, and the date of his death? Ans. Master Kanei Uechi, Futenma, Okinawa, JAPAN, February 1991.
9.14 What is NAUKA? Ans. NAUKA is the acronym for North American Uechi Karate Association which is a representative of Uechi-Ryu Karate-Do in North America.
9.15 Name the three animals from which the movements of this style are derived. Ans. Tiger, Crane, and Dragon. The Tiger provides strength and ferocity, the Crane provides grace and single point death strikes, and the Dragon provides internal power development and spirit, and manifests fear in the opponent.
9.16 Define "Gokurosama" and "Domo Arigato Gozaimashita." These are the standard closing phrases at the end of each class. Ans. 'Thanks for your effort.' 'Thank you very much for what you did."
9.17 What is Sanchin and what does it mean? Ans. Sanchin is an active meditation exercise encompassing the development of one's mind, body, and spirit. Literally it means "three conflicts." An explanation of these conflicts which encompass mind, body, and spirit, are:
1. When a student begins, training emphasis is first on the development of the physical state to include flexibility, coordination, balance, strength, speed, and stamina.
2. Next, training to develop the mental state is added to include concentration, awareness, emotional discipline, confidence, and serenity.
3. Only when the student is reasonably developed in harmony of mind and body can he tackle the mastery of external conflict--positive influence of his environment around him. This enhances his spirit and gives him the ability to provide a positive influence on his outside world. Whenever physical and/or emotional conflict exists around you, try to be “the calm in the center of the storm.” Sanchin develops these qualities in each person who practices faithfully.
SECTION 10: TECHNIQUE EXERCISES
1. SOKUTO GERI (side kicks)
2. SHOMEN GERI (front snap kicks)
3. MAWASHI STUKI (hook punch)
4. HAZUKI UKE HIRA KEN STUKI (high block, four knuckle punch)
5. SHOMEN STUKI (circle block, closed fist punch)
6. SOTO UKE, SHUTO UCHI, URA UCHI, SHOKEN NUKI (block, chop, back fist, one knuckle punch)
7. HIGI STUKI (elbow strikes)
8. TENSHIN ZENSOKU GERI (side step, front foot kick)
9. TENSHIN KOSOKU GERI (side step, rear foot kick)
10. TENSHIN SHOKEN NUKI (side step, one knuckle punch)
11. SHOMEN HAGIKI (fingertip strikes)
12. KOINO SHIPO UCHI (wrist blocks)
13. SHINKO KIU (deep breathing)
Counting from one to ten in Japanese:
Ichi, Ni, San, Shi, Go, Roku, Shichi, Hachi, Ku, Ju
Rank Sequence:
The following are grades (kyu) of rank below black belt. The numbering system is reversed, e.g.. Jukyu means 10th grade, Kukyu means 9th grade, etc.
Jukyu Gokyu
Kukyu Yonkyu
Hachikyu Sankyu
Sichikyu Nikyu
Rokukyu Ikkyu
The following are degrees (dan) of black belt. The numbering system is in normal sequence.
Shodan Rokudan
Nidan Nanadan or Shichidan
Sandan Hachidan
Yondan Kudan or Kyudan
Godan Judan
The following Master titles are awarded on application by black belt holders of the indicated levels: Renshi master level occurs within black belt rank of Rokudan.
Kyoshi master levels occur within Nanadan and Hachidan.
Hanshi master levels occur within Kudan and Judan.
Hanshi-sei is held by the grand master.
The following kata compromise the eight forms of UECHI RYU. Since they are of Japanese origin, they are romanized for ease of accurate pronunciation in the English language.
I. Sanchin*
2. Kanshiwa
3. Kanshu
4. Seichin
5. Seisan*
6. Seiryu
7. Kanchin
8. Sanseiryu*
*These kata are the three original ones learned by Master Kanbun Uechi in China in the early 1900's.