(ii) Depth of Technical (technical principles and theory of technique execution) and Theoretical Knowledge (e.g., history, philosophy, etc.)
(iii) Contributions to the Art through teaching, giving seminars/workshops, research, publications and presentations, service and club leadership
(iv) Psychological Growth (Perfection of Character) and the Development of Ki Power as reflected in the degree to which the jujutsuka adheres to the Guiding Principles of the System, the development of inner strength, the ability to use multiple sources of power effectively (especially Ki Power), control, discipline, responsibility and maturity.
(v) Candidate must be able to hold his/her own in kumite/randori against individuals of equivalent rank.
It must be stressed that these are ideal goals that ALL in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu must work toward. Instructors will employ NO quantifiable standards or points for evaluating candidates for promotion but should collaborate with other high ranking instructors in the system to reach a "Professional Consensus" about whether a particular candidate merits promotion in accordance with the above ideals.
Finally, no person in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu will receive promotion from any sanctioned instructor in the system if their level of Technical Expertise fails to match the rank level they are being tested for. However, while not minimizing the importance of Technical Expertise, after age 60 greater emphasis should be placed on Depth of Technical Knowledge, Contributions to the Art, Maturity and "Perfection of Character" and the development of multiple sources of power, especially Ki Power (see Sources of Power in "System, Philosophy and Principles").
The general criteria for promoting mudansha (non black belts) are as follows:
(i) Student demostrates technique quality appropriate to the rank level they are being promoted to
Rationale
One of the major strengths of Wa Shin Ryu is its flexibility and ability to incorporare new techniques and strategies. That is, it has the ability to evolve as a system. To maintain this flexibility all black belt holders are encouraged to explore and develop new sequences, techniques and ways and introduce them to the system as Experimental Katas (formal sequences that demonstrate important principles and help fill "holes" in the system) or as Training Sequences. Training Sequences are less formal, they involve fewer techniques and one of their purpose is to help students develop transitioning skills in limited fighting situations/contexts. In this regard Training Sequences stress some of the more applied aspects of the system's Formal Katas. All new material introduced into the system must adhere to the System Principles and philosophy of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu.
of Wa Shin Ryu JujutsuThe Meaning of Rank in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu
For black belts (especially Yodan and higher) rank in Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is an indicator that reflects accomplishment/development in FIVE key areas. These are:
(i) Technical Expertise or the ability to demonstrate/execute technique at a level approriate to the rank in question
Promoting Mudansha
(ii) Demonstrates a positive attitude, is eager to learn, accepts criticism and cares for the safety of others
(iii) Demonstrates commitment through regular attendance
(iv) Student is able to hold his/her own in kumite/randori against students of equivalent rank
(v) Demonstrates quality of movement appropriate to his/her rank level
THE Formal KATA of Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu
The system has TWELVE formal kata and several Training Sequences and Experimental Kata. Their primary purpose is to demonstrate formal Wa Shin Ryu principles and their application in action. They are also a repository of many of the major techniques of the system.
Training Sequences/Experimental Kata
These Training Sequences/Experimental Katas are here described as being executed on the right side (in most cases). However, they are to be practised on both sides.
Wa Shin Ryu Jujutsu is recognized by and registered with the USJJF and the USJA
