The following is an excerpt from “Notes on Training” by Tsutomu Ohshima. Published by Pine Winds Press December 1, 1998.
The eyes show if the unconscious mind is moving or holding strong, so we emphasize eyes first and we never promote somebody who closes their eyes, turns their head or looks down. Also look at the other suggestions for practice in the kyu test.
I don’t recommend Tekki Shodan as a favorite form for junior members taking the shodan test. I encourage junior members to practice Tekki Shodan but for the shodan test you should always select one of the Heian katas for your favorite.
You also have to practice lots of Bassai. [June 1993]All brown belts have to practice Bassai before passing shodan. We are asking brown belts to do it 5,000 times.
The program for a shodan test is
Basic
- Gedan Barai, Ageuke, Udeuke, Tetsui Uke, Shuto-uke
- Oizuki, Gyakuzuki
- Maegeri, Mawashigeri, Yokogeri Keage, Yokogeri Kekomi, Mikazukigeri, Fumikomi or Maegeri-Fumikomi
Kata
- Heian, one of these for a favorite form
- Bassai, request form
Kumite
- Sanbon Gumite
- Basic Ippon Gumite
Important Points
- Eyes
- stabilization of hip
- rear leg
- pulling hand
