At our dojo, kyu gradings usually take place in spring and autumn.
Selection of candidates
The head of the dojo (dojocho) will inform you when he sees that you are ready for an examination.
Approximately three months prior to the gradings, the dojocho reviews the participation records and checks which dojo members meet the formal requirements for the examination (minimum training period, number of keikos, number of required seminars, etc.).
The dojocho then takes a closer look at the members who meet the minimum requirements and assesses their personal progress, i.e. whether they are developing at a pace appropriate for the desired grade. (Exams in the minimum time are generally only possible if the candidates show exceptional commitment, i.e. more than two training days per week, frequent attendance at seminars, participation in free training.)
If someone with a kyu grade obtained elsewhere joins as a new member, the minimum training period and the minimum number of training days are extended (counted from the first day of membership). As a rule, the minimum requirements for the next examination (deadlines, days, courses) are doubled; the decision on these formalities is at the discretion of the dojocho.
Ultimately, the head of the dojo decides whether the candidates are ready to start preparation. In our experience, it is not desirable to ‘just barely’ pass an exam, neither for the jury nor for the candidate. So if the dojocho thinks that something is still missing, it is better to allow a little more time... it is not a race.
Once the dojocho has determined that you have reached the appropriate level to prepare for the next exam, you can decide whether you want to take advantage of this opportunity. Participation in exams is voluntary, and the decision is entirely up to you.
The final decision on admission to the exam is made by the dojocho approximately one month before the date, depending on how well you are progressing.
Preparation for the grading
We generally recommend taking part in gradings, as you will see significant progress in your aikido if you rise to the challenge. You will need to train more intensively in order to prepare.
In the months leading up to the examination, we expect regular participation in training (at least two classes per week). During this time we focus on the examination techniques for the desired grades.
During this time, we ask you to participate in all seminars that we organise at the dojo. Please additionally check the requirements for the grade you are aiming for to see how many and which seminars are required.
Arrange free training sessions with your uke or other dojo members at your level. We have reserved time for this at the club house (see dojo calendar).
During this time, the dojocho will observe you closely and give you tips on how to prepare. He will also hold mock exams so that you can get a good feel for the situation and go into the exam feeling relaxed.
All of the above will make you well prepared and confident. We want to ensure that the exam is a good experience for you, one that you can enjoy and be proud of.
What if I simply do not have enough time to prepare?
Sometimes your current circumstances do not allow you to prepare as thoroughly as you should. In this case, please choose a later exam date. After all, this is about your personal development – it is not a race.
Further information
- The requirements for the kyu exams can be found in our grading curriculum. Please first read the details on the included grading sheet.
- In addition, there is an information sheet with general information about the grading procedure.
