All Kyu Ranks
Chart Presentation
The test curriculum is presented in a chart fashion to help you understand the organizational structure of Aikido. The rows are the Japanese names for attacks, and the columns are the Japanese names for the techniques. We learn how to apply every technique against every attack, with variations of applying the technique in front (omote) of the attacker, and behind (ura). As you go through the testing ranks, you will see the chart getting filled in more and more. Over time you will learn several initial evasive moves for each attack, against which you can then apply many, creating infinite variations. The test criteria does not cover every single possibility, but provides a wide enough sample for you to develop a complete set of skills where you can innovate any technique needed on your own in real time against an attacker. It is like learning a new language.
For the list of techniques please review the Adult Criteria PDF. Note that most of the tests do not require every technique listed on these tabs, but these videos show the entire universe of techniques.
If the list for your exam says shomenuchi iriminage 4 variations, look up the attack on the left (shomenuchi) and the column for the technique (iriminage). For your test you should see a green check mark with the numbers representing the location of the techniques in the playlist. When you click on the check mark, it will take you to a youtube playlist and you look up the specific videos by the number showing you the 4 variations. Simply watch all 4 variations in the video. The red check marks are for previous exams, as the material is cumulative.
In the notes at the bottom of the chart are the weapons portion of the test with a linked video and further resources to gain a deeper understanding of the empty hand techniques.
I appoligize in advance for any link errors. Organizing the curriculum was a major project and some errors may be found. Please report them so they can be fixed. Thank you.