Kyu Grade Rank

Requirements

	Ju-Kyu: Everyone starts here.
	Ku-Kyu: Student must have mastered the basic movements of the first four Isshinryu kicks. Student must also be able to perform the 15 upper body basics from memory.
	Hachi-Kyu: Student must be able to perform the 15 upper body basics out of sequence. Student must also be able to perform Seisan kata and perform basic defense techniques in kumite (sparring.) Performance of basic rolls and falls are also required for this promotion. The student should also have a basic knowledege of the history of Isshinryu karate.
	Shichi-Kyu: Student must have increased proficiency in both the upper body basics and Seisan kata. Student must be able to perform all 9 isshinryu kicks as well as Seiuchin kata.
	Rok-Kyu: Student must be able to perform Naihanchi kata. Kumite should be more advanced and knowledge of history should be more thorough. Adult students will also be required to know Kyan No Sai.
	Go-Kyu: Student must be able to perform Wansu kata. Kumite techniques should start to become polished and the student should be able to instruct a beginner through the 15 upper body basics.
	Yon-Kyu: Student should be able to perform Chinto kata. Student must also be able to perform Tokumine No Kun. Thorough knowledge in history and kumite techniques is a must. Student should be comfortable instructing a newer student in the techniques and bunkai of Siesan and Seiuchin katas.
	San-Kyu: Student should be able to perform Kusanku kata. Student should also be able to run class under the supervision of a Black Belt.
	Ni-Kyu: Student should be able to perform Kusanku Sai kata and should be able to run class with little supervision from a Black Belt.
	Ik-Kyu: Student should be able to perform Sanchin kata and run class with no supervision from a Black Belt. Student must be able to give thorough instruction on the techniques and bunkai of the moves in Seisan though Kusanku kata.
	Sho-Dan: Student must have a minimum of 3 years continuous training and be able to perform all eight open hand katas (including Sunsu) well. Polished performance of Tokumine no Kun and Kusanku Sai are also required. Kumite techniques must be polished to a point that the student should be able to defend themselves for an extended period of time. The student should be able to instruct other students in most situations that arise during class and should act as an example to other students at all times.

Student Information