Kyu grading in Kyo­kus­hin Karate – The path to the next level at Shinzen Dojo Berlin

Kyokushin Karate: Ein authentischer Weg aus Japan

Kyokushin Karate, the "ultimate truth karate", was founded in the 1950s by Sosai Masutatsu Oyama in Japan gegründet. Oyama, ein Meister der Kampfkünste, entwickelte Kyokushin with dem Ziel, Körper and Geist durch harte und kompromisslose Trainingsmethoden zu stärken. Der Stil vereint traditionelle Karate techniques mit modernen Trainingsmethoden und ist heute weltweit als eines der härtesten und authentischsten Karatesysteme anerkannt.

In Shinzen Dojo Berlin we place special emphasis on this authenticity.

Every technique, every Kata and every fighting strategy is taught and lived in the tradition of Kyokushin Karate. The legacy of Japan is a central element of our dojo – a place where Discipline, Respect and constant personal growth are at the forefront.

The signi­fi­cance of the Kyu grading in Kyo­kus­hin Karate

The Kyu grading is more than just a test of technique. It is a challenge for the body, the mind and the character of a karateka. Gichin Funakoshi once said:

"Karate begins and ends with respect."

This respect is shown not only in the mastery of techniques, but also in the behaviour and attitude that a student shows in the dojo and during the grading.

In Japan, Kyokushin gradings are subject to strict rules and rituals. The requirements include:

• Kihon (basic techniques): Precise and powerful techniques such as punches, kicks and stances.
• Kata (form patterns): The perfection of complex movement sequences that represent fighting strategies and defence techniques.
• Kumite (free fighting): The ultimate test of mental strength and technique in direct combat.

Japanese examinees often prepare for months or even years for a grading, as it is not just about performing the techniques, but also demonstrating the spirit of karate – the OSU No Seishin (spirit of perseverance) – to demonstrate.

The Kyu grading at Shinzen Dojo Berlin

Prerequisites for participation

Im Shinzen Dojo Berlin folgen wir strikt der offiziellen Examination regulations des Kyokushin Karate. Every student is required to know, understand and master the grading requirements, both technically and physically. But that alone is not enough.

Senpai Anh Son Le, the head of the dojo, additionally sets the following requirements:

1. Training regularity: Only those who regularly attend training show commitment and discipline.
2. Character and conduct: Students should behave according to the Dojo-Kun, which reflects the basic principles of karate such as courtesy, respect and self-control.
3. Attitude during the grading: The grading is not only a test of technique, but also of mental strength. The spirit of OSU No Seishin must be lived throughout the entire grading.

The 3 pillars of assess­ment

The grading is based on three central pillars:

• Kihon (basic techniques)
• Kata (form)
• Kumite (free fighting)

A student may be weaker in one pillar but has the opportunity to compensate for this through outstanding performance in the other two areas.

The process of the Kyu grading

Greeting and line-up

The grading begins with a formal greeting by Senpai Anh Son Le. The students line up in reverse order of their Kyu grades: The lower grades are examined first, while the higher grades accompany the grading until the end – both technically and physically.

Grading content

1. Kihon:Students demonstrate basic techniques such as punches, blocks and kicks. Precision and power are the focus here.
2. Kata:Every Kata must be performed flawlessly. It shows not only technical skills but also the flow and aesthetics of the movements.
3. Kumite:Free fighting is the highlight of the grading. Students show how they apply techniques under pressure and prove their stamina and strategy.

Requi­re­ments for stu­dents

• Arrive in top physical and mental condition
• Clean karate-gi, short nails, tied hair
• Bring complete equipment

Decis­ion-making

The black belt committee decides on critical cases. If a student fails a pillar by a narrow margin, it is checked whether the overall performance is nevertheless sufficient.

Pre­sen­ta­tion of belts and cer­ti­fi­ca­tes

After the grading, the new Kyu grades and certificates are ceremoniously presented.

Growing beyond yours­elf

A Kyu grading is an opportunity to overcome your own limits and reward the hard work of the past months. It is about showing the best version of yourself on the day of the grading.

Oder wie Sosai Mas Oyama es ausdrückte:

"The true fight in karate is the one with yourself."

Shinzen Dojo Berlin invites all students and parents to experience this special moment – whether as a participant or as a spectator.

Osu!