Kihon means Basics, which are the fundamentals of all fighting systems. In Wado Ryu Karate these are our punches, kicks, blocks, strikes and stances. To build a strong foundation for our karate we must drill and practice the basics constantly. The honing of our basic technique is the very essence of our training and must be taken seriously if you wish to progress.  

Kata are forms or patterns in some systems. Sequences of movements that are put together in an overall pattern. We have fifteen Katas in our Style and each Kata contains slightly different emphasis on certain techniques and or strategies. We keep to traditional Kata for Grading purposes but have the benefit of being open minded enough to practice Kata from different martial arts styles. Kata training includes the elements of direction, technique, speed, power, focus and rhythm. 

Kumite means Partner Work or Free Sparring. Partner work introduces pre-arranged drills that help you utilise different punches, kicks, blocks and strikes. These drills will help you with your free sparing. We practice Randori (continuous without stopping) and Sport Kumite (point sparring for competitions). 

The grade syllabus is traditional, and each belt gradually increases in difficulty. The Kyu Grades are 8th Yellow, 7th Orange, 6th Green, 5th Blue, 4th Purple 3rd Brown. The time between these grades are at least 3 months depending on your ability and attendance. 

The next two Kyu grades are 2nd Brown with White stripe, 1st Brown Belt with Red stripe. The time between these grades is 6 months. From 1st Kyu to your Black Belt there is a minimum of 1 year. You might be advanced through some grades depending on your previous experience or the instructor’s discretion.  

We recognise that many people have previous martial arts experience either in Wado Ryu or other styles or systems. However, we must be fair to our existing members and therefore we would ask for proof of grades, certificates or grade books. And depending on your level you might be asked to regrade or be assessed over several training sessions before wearing your existing belt. This is done on a person to person basis.